Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2017
375. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the details of the administration and management structures in Creative Ireland; the way in which the Creative Ireland advisory committees will be structured and their membership; her plans to maintain the so-called arm's length approach to Creative Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8617/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Taoiseach and I launched the Creative Ireland Programme – Clár Éire Ildánach 2017 – 2022on the 8 December 2016 as the Government's Legacy Programme for Ireland 2016 and as the main implementation vehicle for the priorities identified in Culture 2025/Éire Ildánach, the draft cultural policy which I published in July 2016.
The Creative Ireland Programme will embrace the whole cultural sector, bringing together all those involved in the arts, film, broadcasting, visual arts, cultural heritage, the Irish language and Gaeltacht, with Government Departments and State agencies.
The objects for the Creative Ireland Programme will primarily be delivered through, and in partnership with, existing agencies, local authorities, cultural institutions and State bodies.
While the programme will operate under the aegis of my Department it is important to note that this is a cross-Government initiative designed to mainstream culture and creativity in the life of the nation and to promote individual, community and national well-being. I have established a dedicated Project Office within my Department that will be responsible for the implementation of this programme. The programme will be overseen by a Cabinet Committee chaired by An Taoiseach and by a Senior Officials Group led by the Secretary General of the Department of An Taoiseach, comprising civil servants from each relevant Department.
There are no plans at present for setting up Creative Ireland Advisory committees.
