Claire Kerrane
Ceist:82. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the PEACE programme for the next seven years. [27674/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraEU Programmes
Ceisteanna (82)
Freagraí scríofa
The 2014-2020 EU-funded PEACE IV programme is funding 95 projects in the border counties of Ireland and Northern Ireland under the themes of Shared Education, Children and Young People, Shared Spaces and Services, and Building Positive Relations. PEACE IV and its sister programme, INTERREG VA, have a total value of €553m and provide valuable support for peace and reconciliation and cross-border cooperation across the region.
Both programmes are progressing well, with funding fully committed and with projects continuing to deliver outputs despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. The EU UK Withdrawal Agreement provides for the continuation of the current PEACE and INTERREG programme post-Brexit.
In May 2018, the EU Commission included a special new programme, PEACE PLUS, in its proposals for the Multi-Annual Financial Framework and EU Cohesion Policy for the 2021-2027 programming period. PEACE PLUS will continue and build on the work of the current PEACE and INTERREG programmes in support of north south cooperation under the Good Friday Agreement. Provision for the PEACE PLUS programme is also included in the EU UK Withdrawal Agreement.
The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) is leading the development of the PEACE PLUS programme, in close cooperation with my Department and the Department of Finance Northern Ireland. SEUPB is also assisted in this by a Programme Development Steering Group, comprising representatives of both governments, as well as representatives from local authority, business, trade union, community / voluntary, environment and equality organisations.
Question No. 83 answered with Question No. 80.
EU Funding
Ceisteanna (84)
Claire Kerrane
Ceist:84. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on whether the European Structural and Investment Funds are best operated and implemented at a level as close as possible to the grassroots; the consideration he has given to using an integrated territorial investment to ensure that regions can effectively implement the spending in their own areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27676/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Ireland’s allocation of European Regional Development Funds have in the past, and will continue in the future, to support projects in all parts of Ireland. Moreover, in accordance with the EU Regulatory requirement, stakeholders at local, regional and national level will continue to have a key role in the planning, monitoring and delivery of these programmes.
At a regional level, the three Regional Assemblies are playing a very active role in the process of programming for the next round of ERDF, in conjunction and cooperation with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. They are also represented on the Partnership Process Steering Group, which guides and advises on the programming of all of the European Structural Investment Fund (ESIF) programmes, through the development process of the Partnership Agreement for the period 2021–2027.
The Steering Group oversaw the development of a Needs Analysis by Indecon Economic Consultants, which specifically looked at regional development needs.
The Regional Assemblies are also part of a working group which launched a consultation process to inform the selection of priorities for the use of EU cohesion funding for the next period. As part of this consultation a webinar was held on the 28th of July, breakout sessions were organised on a regional basis, and this included a focus on the main priorities of the individual Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies, and views of local organisations were heard. The working group is currently preparing a report, the primary purpose of which is to present the findings and analysis from the public consultation submissions, including the qualitative messages from the national workshop event conducted on 28th July. This approach is designed to ensure regional perspectives and complementarities between ERDF and other funds are considered in developing the future ERDF programme, which is reflective of the Integrated Territorial Investment model.
The report on the public consultation phase, along with the Needs Analysis, adopted by the PPSG in July, will inform the ERDF programming for 2021-2017.
Commemorative Events
Ceisteanna (85)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:85. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the State commemorations being planned for the remainder of 2020 and 2021 as part of the decade of centenaries. [27488/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Minister with responsibility for leading the Decade of Centenaries commemorative programme, my priority is to ensure that the Government's approach to the remembrance of the significant historical events and related themes of the period from 1920 to 1923 is appropriate, measured, respectful, inclusive and sensitive to the different perspectives that persist on the events of this period.
The public health emergency caused by Covid-19 has impacted significantly on the scope for 'in-person' commemorative events and my Department is engaged with our partners and stakeholders to address the challenges presented in order to continue to deliver the Decade of Centenaries programme in a safe and meaningful way.
A significant Decade of Centenaries programme for 2020 was launched in January this year, and included a major commemorative centenary programme in remembrance of the significant events that occurred in Cork City and throughout the county in 1920. Work is ongoing on that programme, which includes a State Ceremonial event on the 1st November later this year to reflect Cork’s contribution to the Struggle for Independence. However, as with all event planning at this time some elements of the programme have been cancelled or postponed with others being significantly reconfigured to comply with Covid-19 guidelines, in particular restrictions on mass gatherings and physical distancing.
The significant State commemorations currently being planned for 2021 as part of the Decade of Centenaries 2012-2023 consist of the following:
1. A ceremonial event at the Custom House Dublin in late May 2021 to appropriately mark the centenary of the burning of the Custom House.
2. A commemoration for all those who lost their lives during the War of Independence, to take place on a suitable date close to the centenary of the coming into effect of the Truce on 11th July 1921 in accordance with the guidance of the Expert Advisory Group on Centenary Commemorations.
For completeness of my reply, the Deputy may also wish to note that the annual Easter 1916 Ceremony is scheduled to take place on Sunday 4th April, 2021 and the annual National Day of Commemoration Ceremony, to honour all those Irishmen and Irishwomen who died in past wars or on service with the United Nations will take place on Sunday 11th July, 2021.
All of the planned events above will comply with the public health advice pertaining as each date falls.
In addition, my Department continues to support a diverse commemorative programme of initiatives, events(where possible) and activity delivered by partners and stakeholders throughout the country, information on the programme and associated resources can be found on www.decadeofcentenaries.com. I intend that this support for the programme will remain in place out to 2023.
The Government's approach to the Decade of Centenaries commemorations will continue to be informed by advice from the Expert Advisory Group on Centenary Commemorations and consultation with the All-Party Consultation Group on Commemorations - I will reconvene the latter group shortly.
I am committed to ensuring that the State's approach to the remembrance of this very complex period in our history and all of those who suffered or lost their lives during those years, will be based on the ethos of authenticity that has become the hallmark of the Decade of Centenaries programme.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Ceisteanna (86)
Louise O'Reilly
Ceist:86. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht if her attention has been drawn to the section of the reopening framework which refers to the development of specific guidelines being developed with the sector; the details of the discussions to date; the stage the guidelines are at; the date they will be competed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27526/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Covid-19 has had a devastating and unprecedented impact on the sectors for which I have responsibility. Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport are integral parts of the fabric of society, supporting economic activity, physical and societal well-being. I recognise that while absolutely necessary to protect us all, the impact of the public health guidelines disproportionally affects the sectors supported by my Department. The public-facing and audience driven nature of the arts, culture, tourism and sports means that each time there is an escalation for any county in the Level applicable under the Living with Covid Plan those sectors will be hardest hit. The Government is acutely aware of these challenges.
The Government recently published Resilience & Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with Covid-19, which sets out the medium-term approach being taken to managing virus-related risks while facilitating continued economic and social activity insofar as possible. As the Deputy notes, the Framework for Restrictive Measures under the Plan makes provision for greater numbers of people to attend organised events at levels 1 and 2 of the Framework in appropriately-controlled environments in very large purpose-built event facilities, in line with public health advice and subject to specific sectoral guidance to be developed.
My Department has already ensured that detailed guidance is available for a range of sectors in relation to COVID-19 restrictions. Officials are in ongoing discussions with relevant stakeholders and the Department of the Taoiseach to examine how best to make appropriate provisions in relation to the Resilience & Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with Covid-19 whilst safeguarding public health and limiting the spread of COVID-19.
Arts Policy
Ceisteanna (87)
Louise O'Reilly
Ceist:87. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht if she or her officials have engaged with a group (details supplied); if so, the details of the discussions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27527/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I recently met with the Events Industry Alliance (EIA) which is composed of the Music and Entertainment Association of Ireland, the Event Production Industry COVID19 working group (EPIC), the Association of Irish Festival Events, the Association of Irish Stage Technicians, the Event Industry Association of Ireland as well as the Event Industry Ireland (EII), Irish Showman’s Guild (ISG), Entertainer’s Ireland Stand Together (EIST) and Irish Inflatables Hirers Federation (IIHF) groupings. In addition, officials of my Department have been engaging with the group to which the Deputy refers since its formation several months ago.
At the EIA meeting, I heard first hand the concerns of the events industry which includes the commercial live music performance sector. I am eager to get our musicians, our performers and all their behind-the-scenes technical support people back to earning a living and doing what they do so well.
In announcing members of the Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce, I have included representation from the Events Industry Alliance. The Taskforce will prepare a report including a set of recommendations on how best the arts and culture sector can adapt and recover from the unprecedented damage arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. I look forward to receiving the Taskforce report in due course.
Departmental Expenditure
Ceisteanna (88, 91)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:88. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the amount spent on media monitoring services by her Department; if the role is provided by private contract operators or in-house services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27560/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:91. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht if she has engaged a third-party company in each of the years 2017 to 2019 and to date in 2020 to conduct media monitoring and-or provide reports on media coverage of her Department; and if so, the costs of same and the companies engaged. [27665/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 91 together.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to expenditure on media monitoring of the years 2017 to 2019 and to date in 2020 from my Department's administrative budget is set out below.
Cost of media monitoring service
Media monitoring of coverage relating to the Department is carried out on national and regional print and online publications as well as broadcasting channels in the Republic of Ireland. This service was provided by Kantar Media from 2017 until February 2020, when the service transferred to LFMI Media/Rue Point Media. Newspaper Licensing Ireland (UK service) provides access to UK based publications. As the House was informed in response to Parliamentary Question No 11838/20 my Department does not engage in social media monitoring.
|
Year |
€ |
|
2017 |
12,093 |
|
2018 |
11,159 |
|
2019 |
13,860 |
|
2020 |
5,263 |
|
Total |
42,375 |
Cost is a primary consideration in all decisions related to expenditure on media media monitoring.
Arts Centres
Ceisteanna (89)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:89. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht if she will address a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27603/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In July, my Department provided funding for arts and culture facilities which had issues arising from Covid19. I also provided capital funding to assist in the re-opening of theatres, arts centres and culture venues such as that referred to in the question. The measures are designed to support arts and culture facilities in preparation for staff, artists and audiences returning to venues to reopen in line with the Government’s Roadmap for Reopening and Return to Work Safety Protocols. There is a high degree of flexibility which will be matched by timely decision-making processes that will allow organisations to undertake immediately, necessary capital adaptations to their buildings so that they comply with the HSE COVID-19 related public health protection measures.
My Department has not received an application from the organisation referred to by the Deputy in respect of either scheme. Further details of this scheme can be found on my Departments website at the following link: https://www.chg.gov.ie/arts/creative-arts/grants-and-funding/
Primary support for the arts in Ireland is delivered by the Arts Council, which is independent in its funding decisions under the Arts Act 2003. The Arts Council continues to operate fully throughout the COVID-19 crisis with a central aim to support artists and arts organisations through these difficult times.
The Arts Council’s funding approach from the onset of the crisis was to honour all funding commitments that have been made to them and that there would be no financial penalties for organisations/individuals that are unable to deliver key activities/key services arising from the impact of the COVID-19 virus.
Organisations that face cash flow challenges during this time were able to draw down up to 90% of their Arts Council funding commitment. This should, in turn, have assisted them in honouring immediate financial commitments. Organisations were asked to prioritise commitments to artists – as this crisis has been a particularly challenging time for them.
With additional investment under the Job Stimulus, the Council introduced a number of funding programmes aimed at assisting arts organisations as follows:
- An Emergency Stability Programme was announced over the summer by the Council to provide once-off financial support to Strategic Funded and Arts Centre Funded organisations that are in need of emergency grant aid. We understand that an application for this scheme has not been received from the organisation to which the Deputy refers;
- a Capacity Building Support Scheme to support arts organisations to gain support, skills and expertise to review and adapt their artistic and/or business models;
- a Professional Development Programme to support practicing artists and arts practitioners to upskill through access to a professional development or training opportunity.
- A number of additional Commissions to enable arts organisations to commission new work from independent artists.
Details of these funding schemes which are being announced by the Council on an ongoing basis can be found on its available funding page at the following link: http://www.artscouncil.ie/available-funding/
Departmental Expenditure
Ceisteanna (90)
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:90. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the amount expended on access to online and hard-copy media publications since May 2020 to date; and the breakdown of online and hard-copy subscriptions, including the publications to which her Department subscribes. [27647/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I refer the Deputy to the reply given to Dáil Question No. 1309 of 13 May last.
I am informed that since May of this year the Department incurred expenditure of €180 on hard-copy publications and €4,183 on online publications bringing total expenditure in 2020 to date to €3,638 and €5,926 respectively.
The hard-copy media publications to which these subscriptions apply include the Irish Independent, Sunday Independent, Irish Examiner, Sun (Irish edition), Irish Daily Star, Daily Mirror (Irish edition) , Daily Mail (Irish edition), The Herald, Sunday World, Mail on Sunday (Irish edition), Sunday Mirror (Irish edition), Sunday Times (Irish edition), Business Post, Irish Times, Phoenix, Irish Farmers Journal and the Economist.
In relation to online media publications the Department subscribes to Rue Point Media, Irish Times, Business Post, Irish Independent, Sunday Independent, The Herald, Sunday World, the Sunday Times, Press Reader, Sport For Business and POLITICO Pro.
Cost, including the use of corporate or group subscriptions, is a primary consideration in all decisions related to expenditure on media publications and subscriptions.
Question No. 91 answered with Question No. 88.
National Cultural Institutions
Ceisteanna (92)
Imelda Munster
Ceist:92. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the status of the transfer of the National Symphony Orchestra to the National Concert Hall. [27685/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Following the publication of the report by RTÉ that it commissioned from independent consultants Helen Boaden and Mediatique on the RTÉ Orchestras entitled RTÉ Orchestras Ensuring a Sustainable Future, the Government agreed in principle that the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) should come within the remit of the National Concert Hall (NCH), and authorised the initiation of discussions on the implementation of the recommendations of the report.
The overall aim of the Government decision in relation to the proposed transfer of the RTÉ NSO is to enable the orchestra to be established as a world class orchestra which would, with the NCH, provide a creative and imaginative programme strategy that would greatly enhance the offering of the combined organisation to the public.
My Department has had extensive engagements with with both RTÉ and the NCH in order to progress developments and a number of issues are continuing to be addressed on ongoing basis. Further discussions are continuing and I look forward to further progress on this important issue.
Covid-19 Pandemic Supports
Ceisteanna (93)
Imelda Munster
Ceist:93. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the representations she has made to the Minister for Social Protection and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform regarding the need to return the employment wage subsidy scheme to the previous rate under the temporary wage subsidy scheme for the tourism sector given the long-term effects of the Covid-19 restrictions on business owners and workers in that sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27686/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The design of the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) reflects the changing environment around the COVID-19 pandemic which has shifted from crisis mode to one of living alongside the virus, in line with the recently announced Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19. As a result, a number of flexibilities have been included in the EWSS, while the rates and eligibility criteria have been modified so that the support is sustainable from an Exchequer cost perspective.
The objective of the EWSS is to maintain the link between employees and employers insofar as is possible and a number of elements are contained in the scheme that have particular benefit to the tourism sector raised. For example, it includes employees that were not previously eligible for the TWSS, such as seasonal workers and new hires, and applications for such workers under the EWSS may be backdated to 1 July 2020.
The operation of the EWSS and its effectiveness will be kept under close review over the coming months. The relevant legislation obliges the Minister for Finance to monitor the scheme and empowers him to make certain adjustments across the whole scheme where he determines that these are necessary.
I am acutely aware of the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector. In this regard the Tourism Recovery Taskforce is expected to publish its Final Recovery Plan shortly and I will consider its recommendations at that stage. In the context of the Budget and the development of the National Economic Plan, the Government will review and, if necessary, refine existing supports and consider any further necessary measures.
Sports Capital Programme
Ceisteanna (94)
Imelda Munster
Ceist:94. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht if her Department gives weighting to clubs applying for sports capital grants in circumstances in which women in sport will directly benefit; if not, her plans to include weighting of this type for clubs and groups applying for the grants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27687/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Sports Capital Programme (SCP) as operated by my Department provides funding to voluntary, sporting and community organisations for the provision of sports and recreational facilities. Over 12,000 projects have now benefited from sports capital funding since 1998, bringing the total allocations in that time to close to €1 billion. The programme has transformed the sporting landscape of Ireland with improvements in the quality and quantity of sporting facilities in virtually every village, town and city in the country.
In relation to the most recent rounds of the SCP, the full scoring system was published in advance of the assessment work commencing. One of the key criteria in scoring applications has always been whether the proposed project will increase participation and in this regard the scoring system for the most recent round of the SCP specifically references the likelihood of increasing female participation. Other key criteria in scoring projects under the latest rounds of the programme include whether proposed projects were from disadvantaged areas or groups, whether the applicant had received significant funding in the past and whether the proposed facility or equipment would be shared with other groups in the community.
With regard to future rounds of the programme, a full Review of the 2018 round of the SCP has now been complete and the terms and conditions of the next round of the programme will be based on the recommendations in the Review. Work on these terms and conditions is now being finalised and a new round of the programme will be open for applications before the end of the year with an announcement in this regard expected in the coming weeks. I expect that projects likely to increase female participation will continue to be prioritised when these terms and conditions and the scoring system are finalised.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Ceisteanna (95)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:95. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the person or body that will develop specific guidance for large purpose-built event facilities as outlined in the living with Covid-19 plan for level 1; and the way in which the relevant sectors and event organisers obtain such guidance for large indoor and outdoor events. [27692/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The COVID19 crisis has had a devastating and unprecedented impact on the sectors supported by my Department. The public-facing and audience driven nature of the arts, culture, tourism and sports means that each time there is an escalation for any county in the Level applicable under the Living with Covid Plan those sectors are impacted. The Government is acutely aware of these challenges.
Covid-19 has had a devastating and unprecedented impact on the sectors for which I have responsibility. Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport are integral parts of the fabric of society, supporting economic activity, physical and societal well-being.
The Living with Covid Plan provided for the development of sector specific guidelines for the organised events, events in large stadia and indoor dining. My Department is in discussions with relevant stakeholders and the Department of the Taoiseach to examine how best to provide safely for these matters whilst ensuring public health and limiting the spread of Covid-19.
Departmental Strategies
Ceisteanna (96)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:96. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht if the arts and culture recovery task force will address the need for a long-term strategy for the arts and entertainment industries as outlined in the programme for Government; and the way in which and when the arts strategy will be developed. [27693/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Earlier this month, I set up the Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce. Clare Duignan is chairing the Taskforce and the other members are:
- Arts Council
- Business to Arts
- Council of the National Cultural Institutions
- County and City Management Association (CCMA)
- Department of Health
- Department of Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht
- Department of Social Protection
- Ealaín na Gaeltachta
- Events Industry Alliance
- Irish Congress of Trade Unions
- National Campaign for the Arts
- Irish Music Rights Organisation
- Irish Theatre Institute
- Screen Ireland
- Screen Producers Ireland
- Denise Chaila
- Martin Hayes
The Terms of Reference are as follows:
The Taskforce will prepare a report for the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht including a set of recommendations on how best the arts and culture sector can adapt and recover from the unprecedented damage arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. The sector includes culture, the arts, the audiovisual industry and the live entertainment industry. Taking as its starting point, the research and evidence of the devastating impact of the pandemic on the sector compiled by the Department, the Arts Council and other stakeholders, the Taskforce will:-
- adopt a solution-focused approach;
- seek sector-specific expert input and consult with stakeholders;
- invite additional individuals or expertise to attend meetings on an ad hoc basis, as it deems necessary;
- focus on providing intelligence and recommendations for an expected on-going and varying impact of COVID-19 restrictions;
- identify immediate and medium term goals for recovery and sustainability in the sector;
- identify possible policy initiatives or impediments to a robust sustainable recovery in the sector;
- recommend whole of Government policy initiatives and actions to support the sector;
- report to the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht by the 31 October 2020 in order to provide the Government with an action-plan for the sector.
The Taskforce has already met twice. All minutes of the Taskforce as well as correspondence that it receives will be published in due course.
Caiteachas Caipitiúil
Ceisteanna (97)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:97. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Meán, Turasóireachta, Ealaíon, Cultúir, Spóirt agus Gaeltachta céard iad na hiarrachtaí atá á ndéanamh aici chun a chinntiú go mbeidh hallaí pobail sna ceantair Ghaeltachta in ann costais reatha, árachas, agus billí eile nach bhfuil clúdaithe faoin gClár Tacaíochtaí Pobail agus Teanga nó faoi chúnamh caipitil, a íoc, nuair a chuirtear i gcuntas nach raibh aon ioncam acu i mbliana, toisc gur chuir an Rialtas na coláistí samhraidh ar ceal; cathain a chuirfidh sí ciste reatha ar fáil dóibh; agus an bhfuil aon phlean tarrthála aici do na hallaí pobail seo. [27694/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Aithníonn an Roinn gur tréimhse dhúshlánach í seo do phobal na Gaeltachta i gcoitinne de dheasca Covid-19 agus gur buille tromchúiseach a bhí ann do hallaí pobail sa Ghaeltacht ós rud é gur chaill cuid mhaith díobh an foinse ioncaim bliantúil a bhíonn acu ó bheith ag cur a gcuid áiseanna ar fáil do na coláistí Gaeilge.
Chun tacú le cobhsú earnáil na gcoláistí samhraidh Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht d’fhógair mo Roinn ag tús an tsamhraidh go raibh ciste éigeandála aon uaire ar fiú €4.7m á chur ar fáil. Tháinig an tionscnamh seo tar éis gur fhógair mo Roinn ar an 20 Aibreán 2020 nach reáchtálfaí aon chúrsa foghlama Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht sa samhraidh de bharr srianta Covid-19, ar mhaithe le sláinte phoiblí a chosaint.
Ag aithint ar ndóigh go bhfuil rath chóras na gcoláistí agus na n-ionad pobail sa Ghaeltacht ag brath ar a chéile, chas oifigigh mo Roinne le toscaireacht ó hallaí pobail i nGaeltacht Chonamara cúpla mí ó shin agus pléadh na hábhair imní atá acu. Bheartaigh an toscaireacht sin teagmháil a dhéanamh le lucht na gColáistí ábhartha féachaint an bhféadfaidís cuidiú leo.
Tuigtear dom go bhfuil idirbheartaíocht ar bun i gcónaí idir lucht stiúrtha hallaí pobail agus coláistí Gaeilge faoi leith. Tá an scéal á choinneáil faoi bhreithniú ag mo chuid oifigigh agus eagrófar cruinniú eile leis an toscaireacht chomh luath agus a bheidh cinneadh déanta ag na coláistí ar fad.
Is tríd a cuid scéimeanna caipitil a chuireann mo Roinn tacaíocht airgid ar fáil do phobail áitiúil chun áiseanna pobail agus chaitheamh aimsire a fhorbairt. Cé nach bhfuil aon scéim ná ciste ag an Roinn faoina bhféadfaí cúnamh reatha a chur ar fáil do hallaí agus ionaid phobail, is féidir a bheith cinnte go leanfaidh mo Roinn ag cabhrú mar is cuí le cúnamh caipitil a chur ar fáil faoina Clár Tacaíochtaí Pobail agus Teanga ar leas na hallaí agus ionaid pobail.
Ceisteanna Craolacháin
Ceisteanna (98)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:98. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Meán, Turasóireachta, Ealaíon, Cultúir, Spóirt agus Gaeltachta agus é i gceist aici Údarás Craolacháin na hÉireann a dhíscaoileadh agus Coimisiún na Meán a bhunú ina áit, an bhfuil sé ar intinn aici an deis a thapú chun na forálacha cuí den Acht Craolacháin, agus cumais an Choimisiúin nua, i leith na Gaeilge a threisiú, ar nós na gcéimeanna a mhol daoine (sonraí tugtha) san aighneacht a chuir siad faoi bhráid Chomhchoiste na Gaeilge, na Gaeltachta agus na nOileán sa bhliain 2018 dar teideal Taighde ar Úsáid na Gaeilge ar an Raidió. [27695/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Faoin mBille um Shábháilteacht Ar Líne agus Rialáil na Meán atá beartaithe, bunófar Coimisiún Meán il-daoine, díscaoilfear Údarás Craolacháin na hÉireann, bunófar creataí rialála don tsábháilteacht ar líne agus chun seirbhísí meán closamhairc a rialú, agus déanfar an Treoir athbhreithnithe maidir le Seirbhísí Meán Closamhairc (AVMS) a thrasuí. Níl aon fhorálacha sa Treoir AVMS a bhaineann le raidió, mar gur inniúlacht náisiúnta é sin. Cheadaigh an Rialtas Scéim Ghinearálta an Bhille an 9 Eanáir 2020 agus foilsíodh ansin é an 10 Eanáir 2020. Lorgófar ceadú an Rialtais go gairid chun Scéim Ghinearálta an Bhille a thabhairt chun críche trí chur leis na forálacha a bhaineann le Coimisiún na Meán a mhaoiniú, na seirbhísí meán closamhairc a rialú, an uasmhéid do smachtbhannaí airgeadais maidir le neamhchomhlíontacht agus ábhair eile.
Tá tuarascáil ar na dúshláin atá roimh chraolachán Gaeilge curtha i dtoll i chéile ag Comhchoiste Oireachtais na Gaeilge, na Gaeltachta agus na nOileán agus tá sí san áireamh i liosta moltaí. Bhí an taighde atá luaite sa cheist, mar chuid lárnach den tuarascáil seo. Déanfaidh an Bille um Shábháilteacht ar Líne agus Rialáil na Meán leasú ar roinnt gnéithe den Acht Craolacháin, 2009 agus díreoidh go príomha ar leasuithe atá de dhíth chun Treoir an AVMS a thrasuí agus creat éifeachtacht maidir le sábháilteacht ar líne a chur i bhfeidhm. Níl sé i gceist ag an bpointe seo gnéithe eile den Acht Craolacháin, 2009 a bhaineann le hearnáil an raidió ná leis an nGaeilge a athbhreithniú. Tá sé i gceist go bhfo-ghlacfaidh Coimisiún na Meán feidhmeanna reatha Údarás Craolacháin na hÉireann, lena n-áirítear a chuid feidhmeanna i leith na Gaeilge, mar atá leagtha amach san Acht Craolacháin, 2009.
Maoiniú Chraoltóirí Seirbhíse Poiblí
Ceisteanna (99)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:99. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Meán, Turasóireachta, Ealaíon, Cultúir, Spóirt agus Gaeltachta an féidir léi a rá an bhfuiltear den tuiscint in a Roinn gur gá tabhairt faoin mbearna sa mhaoiniú poiblí a chuirfear ar fáil do TG4 don bhliain 2021 agus atá tuartha a bheith os cionn €4 milliún, ionas go mbeidh TG4 in ann an straitéis 2018-2022 atá comhaontaithe le hÚdarás Craolacháin na hÉireann a chomhlíonadh; agus cad iad na céimeanna atá glactha aici agus ag a Roinn chun déileáil leis an mbearna sin. [27696/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
An státchiste den chuid is mó a dhéanann maoiniú ar TG4 agus faigheann sé roinnt ioncaim tráchtála. Ba ionann an maoiniú poiblí sin in 2020 agus €37.2m, agus bhí sin comhdhéanta de €34.2m i maoiniú reatha agus €3m i maoiniú caipitil.
Tá maoiniú breise curtha ar fáil do TG4 le roinnt blianta anuas. Cuireadh €2m sa bhreis (€1m reatha agus €1 caipiteal) ar fáil sa bhliain 2018. Ina theannta sin, leithdháileadh deontas aon uaire €985,000 chomh maith i leith Bhliain na Gaeilge.
Leithdháileadh maoiniú reatha breise €443,000 in 2019 agus cuireadh maoiniú caipitil breise €1m ar fáil in 2020.
Déanfar an maoiniú státchiste atá le tabhairt do TG4 sa bhliain 2021 a chinneadh mar chuid den phróiseas meastachán. Beidh mé ag dul i mbun plé le mo chomhghleacaí an tAire Caiteachais Phoiblí agus Athchóirithe maidir le ceanglais maoiniúcháin mo Roinne don bhliain 2021.
Departmental Funding
Ceisteanna (100)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:100. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht when she plans to rectify the disproportionate increase in funding for Údarás na Gaeltachta vis-à-vis IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland since the financial crisis by increasing its funding; and her views on the growing divide. [27698/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, it is through the annual budgetary and estimates process that Exchequer funding is allocated to my Department and indeed to all Government Departments and agencies. In this context, the Deputy will understand that the 2021 allocation for Irish Language and Gaeltacht organisations, including Údarás na Gaeltachta, is currently being considered as part of this process.
My Department continues to increase funding for Údarás na Gaeltachta as resources allow. The core exchequer allocation from my Department to An tÚdarás in 2020 is €23.652m, which represents an increase of €1m from the previous year.
It is important to note that the Government has allocated substantial funding to Údarás na Gaeltachta from various other sources, such as an additional capital allocation of 10.484m under the Rural Regeneration & Development Fund and the Regional Enterprise Development Fund.
In addition, Údarás na Gaeltachta also receives current funding of circa €3m per annum from my Department in respect of cultural and language planning activities.
In light of the impact of Covid-19 on our society and economy, the Government has provided additional funding and supports to Údarás na Gaeltachta and its client companies, through both targeted national and sectoral measures.
The July Jobs Stimulus package includes a significant additional capital allocation of €8m for Údarás na Gaeltachta in order to enable it to undertake essential upgrades to existing building stock and water treatment facilities, thereby facilitating the marketing of currently dormant factory spaces for modern job-creation projects.
This will create 40-50 new construction jobs across Gaeltacht communities in the short-term while the re-developed building stock will support the longer-term creation of 320 new jobs in Údarás na Gaeltachta client-companies.
Earlier this year, my Department secured access for Údarás na Gaeltachta client companies to an initial €5m available from the Sustaining Enterprise Fund, which is administered through the State’s development agencies following successful negotiations by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation with the European Commission under the temporary state aid framework.
Prior to this, extra funding of €0.6m was secured for Údarás na Gaeltachta to administer the Trading Online Voucher Scheme in the Gaeltacht.
In addition to the funding allocated directly to Údarás na Gaeltachta to support new and existing enterprises in the Gaeltacht, it is important to note that the organisation also facilitates access to the schemes administered by the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices in Gaeltacht areas.
Where a specific programme or scheme administered by Enterprise Ireland or the Local Enterprise Offices is not available from Údarás na Gaeltachta’s existing broad suite of incentives and programme offerings, arrangements are in place to ensure such programmes, supports and services are available to all indigenous Gaeltacht-based clients of Údarás na Gaeltachta on the basis of a Memorandum of Understanding between the organisations.
The Programme for Government clearly illustrates that the Government is committed to support and resourcing Údarás na Gaeltachta and a solid foundation has already been laid, as evidenced by the initiatives detailed above.
An Coimisinéir Teanga
Ceisteanna (101)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:101. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Meán, Turasóireachta, Ealaíon, Cultúir, Spóirt agus Gaeltachta céard iad na céimeanna atá beartaithe aici chun na moltaí sa Tuarascáil is déanaí ón gCoimisinéir Teanga a chur i bhfeidhm; agus cad é a barúil ar an Tuarascáil. [27699/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Tá dhá thuarascáil foilsithe ag an gCoimisinéir Teanga go dáta i mbliana - an Tuarascáil Bhliantúil 2019 i mí na Bealtaine agus an Tuarascáil Faireacháin 2019 a foilsíodh i mí Lúnasa. Ní léir ó cheist an Teachta cén tuarascáil go sonrach a bhfuil i gceist aige ach ní gá a rá go mbeidh mo Roinn ag tabhairt aird ar a bhfuil ráite ag an gCoimisinéara Teanga sa bpéire acu.
Dar ndóigh, fáiltíonn mo Roinn roimh mholtaí an Choimisinéara Teanga i gcónaí. Ar bhonn praiticiúil is é a dhéanann monatóireacht ar fheidhmiú Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 agus is tríd sin ar féidir láidreachtaí agus laigí na seirbhísí Stáit i nGaeilge a aithint agus aghaidh a thabhairt orthu.
Mar shampla, chuir ‘An Tráchtaireacht ar Chóras na Scéimeanna Teanga’ a d’fhoilsigh an Coimisinéir Teanga in 2017 go mór leis an bplé a bhain le deireadh a chur le córas na scéimeanna teanga agus cuimsiú chóras na gcaighdeán teanga i mBille na dTeangacha Oifigiúla (Leasú) - atá le hachtú roimh dheireadh na bliana mar atá geallta i gClár an Rialtais.
Agus mo Roinnse ag féachaint chun an Bille seo a neartú chomh maith, rinneadh breithiúnas air agus tógadh san áireamh roinnt tuairimí agus moltaí eile de chuid an Choimisinéara Teanga. Dar ndóigh, beidh roinnt acu seo lárnach do dhréachtú na gcaighdeán teanga chomh maith - go háirithe iad siúd a bhaineann le haghaidh a thabhairt ar chaighdeán na seirbhísí atá á gcur ar fáil trí Ghaeilge do mhuintir na Gaeltachta.
Bhuail mé leis an gCoimisinéir Teanga agus mé ar chuairt ar Chonamara le déanaí agus thapaigh mé an deis a chuid tuairimí maidir leis an mBille agus nithe eile a bhaineann le soláthar seirbhísí Stáit a phlé leis. Cuirfear san áireamh na tuairimí sin, dár ndóigh, sa díospóireacht a bheidh ar bun agus an Bille á thabhairt tríd an Oireachtas.