Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 July 2020
36. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the specific culture and heritage projects she plans to prioritise during the lifetime of the 33rd Dáil; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17255/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra47. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the mission statement of her Department; the extent to which she expects to meet specific targets throughout the lifetime of the 33rd Dáil; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17254/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 47 together.
As the Deputy will be aware the Programme for Government sets out at an exciting and challenging agenda for all Departments over the coming years, including my own newly configured Department of Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht.
The commitments contained in the Programme for Government have provided me with a strong mandate to bring forward important legislative and policy initiatives aimed at fulfilling my new role across the range of my Department's brief.
The Irish language and the Gaeltacht was of huge importance to the Government and I look forward to working closely with the Minister of State for the Gaeltacht, the Irish Language and Sport, Jack Chambers TD, to progress the broad remit of the Department.
Our unique language and culture and sport are central to how we identify as a nation and that this in turn is at the heart of what attracts foreign and domestic tourists to holiday in Ireland. The forging of stronger links between all of these elements will build a rich and rewarding cultural experience for our citizens and visitors alike.
The Covid-19 crisis has had a very severe impact on all areas of society, and it is particularly acute in our arts and tourism sectors. I look forward to working towards fulfilling the Government’s commitment to assisting these sectors in particular as we plan our country’s economic recovery.
Having met with the Tourism Recovery Taskforce and examined its Initial Report, I look forward to the outcome of the Taskforce’s deliberations and to working with the sector towards a sustainable recovery. I am also aware of the challenges that exist for the National Governing Bodies of Sport and sports clubs as sports begin to return and I look forward to meeting the key stakeholders in the sector in the near future.
Covid-19 has also shown us the critical importance of a vibrant and informed media, and particularly the importance of public sector broadcasting in both of our national languages. This sector, which is a fundamental pillar of a modern and pluralistic democracy, faces very specific challenges.
My officials are already engaged in the work of developing the appropriate structures and strategies to deliver on this challenging agenda and this will be reflected in the Department's Statement of Strategy that will be published in later in the year.
