Written Answers Nos. 287-311
287. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her response to the views of a sports club (details replied) with regard to the recent announcements and restrictions concerning Ireland entering level 3; if a level playing field will be committed to for sports of a similar nature; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44901/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that question relates to the restrictions under Level 3 which no longer apply. The gravity of the current epidemiological situation is such that the Government's clear message is for people to stay in their homes, unless necessary for those essential reasons set out in the public health regulations.
The current restrictions are clear that matches and competitive sporting events are not permitted except for professional and elite sportspeople. This is in recognition of the need to limit insofar as possible person-to-person contact to prevent transmission of COVID-19. The protocols applied for elite sports training and competition are aligned with international best practice and have been developed in consultation with the Expert Group on the Return to Sport.
My Department and Sport Ireland are also engaging with the various sporting bodies to inform a review of the broader COVID-19 measures for sporting activity, which will be considered by Government at the appropriate time. The issue of safely resuming competitions and leagues will form part of the review.
289. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the amount of funding that has been allocated for the installation of a swimming pool by Kildare County Council at the Maynooth University campus. [44904/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraNo funding has been allocated by my Department for the project referred to by the Deputy.
The Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) was launched in 2018 to provide Exchequer support for larger sports facility projects including swimming pools with €100m being made available over the period to 2027.
An application was received from Kildare County Council for design funding towards a new swimming pool at the Maynooth campus with €1m sought. All applications under the LSSIF were assessed in accordance with the published scoring criteria and provisional allocations totalling €82.4m for 32 projects were announced last year. Of these 32 grants, 8 swimming pool projects were awarded funding.
The total funding applied for under the scheme significantly exceeded the amount available to allocate and the swimming pool project in Maynooth did not score sufficiently highly to be awarded a grant under this set of allocations. All unsuccessful applicants were however, given the opportunity to appeal the Department’s decision if it was felt than an error was made in the assessment process and an appeal in this regard was received from Kildare County Council. All appeals have now been assessed by officials who were not involved in the initial assessment process and a final decision on the LSSIF appeals will be made shortly. While it is not proposed to open the LSSIF for new applications at present, I have asked my officials to review progress on existing grants this year when the question of whether it would be appropriate to seek new applications or award additional grants will be considered.
290. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will consider lifting the restrictions for bowling centres; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44924/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is a matter for the Government to decide on the imposition or lifting of restrictions necessary to respond to prevailing pandemic circumstances.
The gravity of the current epidemiological situation does not permit Government consideration at this time of the proposal outlined by the Deputy. The Government's clear message is for people to stay in their homes, unless necessary for those essential reasons set out in the public health regulations.
291. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will consider a proposal (details supplied) to allow bowling alleys to open during level 3 lockdown. [44942/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would refer the Deputy to the Government's Framework for Restrictive Measures https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ad569-level-3/#measures-in-place-from-1-december, which outlines the overriding public health rationale for the suite of measures applicable to each of the Framework's five levels.
Under level 3 of the Framework, only individual training is permitted indoors subject to compliance with prevailing public health requirements. Sport Ireland has published practical guidance on the measures around indoor sporting activity on its website at: https://www.sportireland.ie/covid19/individual-and-indoor-training
It is a matter for the Government to decide on the range of restrictions considered necessary to respond to prevailing pandemic circumstances, including those to be applied as and when the current grave epidemiological situation improves to the point that a return to Level 3 can be contemplated.
292. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the guidelines that regulate the promotion of Irish music on airplay on Irish radio and television; her plans to introduce additional regulations particularly with regard to setting a percentage quota requirement for Irish music on radio and television; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44981/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am strongly supportive of the promotion of Irish music on our broadcasting services. Ireland has a strong and vibrant music sector, which is recognised across the world. As Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, I am keen to ensure that appropriate supports are in place to further nurture and protect this sector.
However, I am conscious of the legal and other factors which must be taken into account when considering the feasibility of introducing airplay quotas. The potential benefit to music production in Ireland must be balanced with the rights of broadcasters, subject to their contractual or regulatory obligations, to determine the type of content they wish to broadcast and to ensure commercial revenue particularly in the context of the current media climate. Importantly, the introduction of airplay quotas would need to be consistent with EU law.
An example of airplay quotas in the EU can be seen in France. In 1994, France introduced a mandatory quota for 40% airplay of French language music on French radio stations, this quota was reduced to 35% in 2016. Any quota for airplay would be considered to restrict free movement of services by placing music meeting certain criteria in a more advantaged position. However, a quota for airplay of music in a particular language, as is the case in France, can be justified under EU case law, as the preservation and promotion of an official language of a Member State constitutes a general interest objective. Unlike music in a particular language, a quota system for music produced in a particular place, as suggested in this question, does not appear to have grounds for exemption from the general requirements of EU law. Therefore, without a similar justification on the grounds of linguistic protection, a quota for music produced in a particular Member State would be considered to restrict free movement of services by placing music produced in other Member States at a disadvantage.
Given the legal challenges arising, the Government is not currently considering airplay quotas based on production location. I will however continue to support Irish musicians and musical content, though initiatives within my Department and through funding for the Arts Council. The Arts Council is the state body through which the Government funds the arts, including music, in Ireland. Arts Council funding has increased from €80m at the beginning of last year to €130m this year – an increase of over 60%. I also provided significant targeted funding last year for music and musicians including very successful national events - Other Voices: Courage, the Hot Press Young and Emerging series, Ireland Performs and the Music Industry Stimulus Package. A very significant proportion of over €5m allocated to the Live Performance Support Scheme was allocated to musicians. In 2021, the Government has allocated €50m for live performance. These benefits are over and above economy wide supports, principally the Pandemic Unemployment Payment. My Department will continue to engage with the sector to tailor supports to the needs of musicians and other artists. I appointed a number of musicians to the Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce.
I am also conscious of the challenges faced by the live music sector as a result of necessary public health restrictions. To complement the live performance and music industry support package I have put in place, I have requested that the BAI will include a special emphasis on applications that support the live music sector within a general round of Sound and Vision to be put in place in Q1 2021 and I have provided additional funding of €1.4m to support this.
293. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the financial supports that Fáilte Ireland will provide to the coach tourism sector; and if funding will be allocated from the €55 million business continuity scheme designed to support strategic businesses in the sector. [44987/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra294. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her plans to support coach tourism in 2021 in view of the fact that the sector is responsible for attracting two million international tourists to Ireland each year. [44988/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra295. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her plans to address the significant cash flow pressures that businesses in the coach tourism are experiencing and are likely to continue to experience over 2021 (details supplied). [44989/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra296. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she has made representations to Fáilte Ireland in respect of the need for coach tourism to be supported under the €55 million in business continuity scheme designed for strategic tourism businesses; and the status of the request for financial support. [44990/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 293 to 296, inclusive, together.
As part of the July stimulus package and in response to the challenges being experienced by the Coach Tourism sector the Government provided €10m to fund the Coach Tourism Business Continuity Scheme which is administered by Fáilte Ireland. I have asked Fáilte Ireland to provide the Deputy with further details regarding the administration of the scheme. Please let my private office know if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Budget 2021 included a number of further substantial measures to support and strengthen the tourism sector and are supplemented by the economy-wide business supports and social welfare measures. A key measure in Budget 2021 was the provision of an additional €55m in Business Continuity funding to support strategic tourism businesses. This funding will be administered by Fáilte Ireland who are considering all sectors within tourism and are particularly mindful of those that have not been able to avail of other Government supports.
Supports available to tourism businesses will continue to be reviewed as we seek to protect viable businesses and prepare for recovery in the sector.
297. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Pearse Doherty den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán cén maoiniú a chuir Ealaín na Gaeltachta ar fáil d’eagraíochtaí in 2018, 2019 agus 2020; agus i bhfoirm tábla, cad iad na heagraíochtaí a fuair maoiniú agus cé mhéad maoiniú a tugadh d'achan eagraíocht díobh sin. [44998/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraCuireann Ealaín na Gaeltachta Teo. maoiniú ar fáil d’eagraíochtaí trí scéimeanna éagsúla a fhógraítear go bliantúil agus atá dírithe ar thosaíochtaí straitéiseacha agus ar ghníomhachtaí atá leagtha síos ina bPlean Straitéise d’fhorbairt na n-ealaíon sa Ghaeltacht 2018 – 2022 a bhaint amach.
Chomh maith leis sin, tá Ealaín na Gaeltachta Teo. ag comhoibriú leis an An Roinn Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán le clár sna hEalaíona Dúchasacha don óige dar teideal Cuisle a chur i bhfeidhm atá mar thaca don phróiseas pleanála teanga agus go deimhin don Pholasaí don Oideachas Gaeltachta atá faoi stiúir na Roinne Oideachais.
Leagtar amach sa tábla thíos an maoiniú a cheadaigh Ealaín na Gaeltachta d’eagraíochtaí tríd na scéimeanna éagsúla atá á riar acu in 2018, 2019 agus 2020.
|
|
Eagras |
Seoladh |
2018 € |
2019 € |
2020 € |
|
1 |
Ionad Cultúrtha, Baile Bhúirne |
Bhaile Bhuirne, Co. Chorcaí |
43,000.00 |
33,500.00 |
57,500.00 |
|
2 |
Comhchoiste Chiarraí Theas |
Ceann Eich, Co. Chiarraí |
5,000.00 |
17,000.00 |
19,200.00 |
|
3 |
Comhlacht Forbartha na nDéise |
An Rinn, Co. Phort Láirge |
- |
- |
6,000.00 |
|
4 |
Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne |
Baile an Fheirtéaraigh, Co. Chiarraí |
20,000.00 |
20,000.00 |
25,000.00 |
|
5 |
Aisling Gheal |
Béal Átha 'n Ghaorthaidh, Co. Chorcaigh |
10,000.00 |
10,000.00 |
10,284.00 |
|
6 |
An Lab |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
25,000.00 |
- |
- |
|
7 |
Coiste Stiúrtha An Fhéile Bheag Filíochta |
Baile an Fheirtéaraigh, Co. Chiarraí |
2,300.00 |
- |
- |
|
8 |
Cruinniú na bhFliúit |
Cúil Aodha, Co. Chorcaí |
2,000.00 |
2,000.00 |
- |
|
9 |
Féile Traid an Daingin |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
1,500.00 |
- |
- |
|
10 |
Féile Scannán an Daingin |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
6,000.00 |
6,000.00 |
- |
|
11 |
Éigse Dhiarmuid Uí Shúilleabháin |
Baile Mhúirne, Co. Chorcaí |
3,000.00 |
3,000.00 |
3,000.00 |
|
12 |
Tionól Nioclás Tóibín |
An Rinn, Co. Phort Láirge |
2,000.00 |
2,000.00 |
2,000.00 |
|
13 |
Scoil Cheoil an Earraigh |
Baile an Fheirtéaraigh, Co. Chiarraí |
6,900.00 |
- |
- |
|
14 |
Féile na Bealtaine |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
15,000.00 |
15,000.00 |
- |
|
15 |
Iontaoibheas Fódhla |
Cúil Aodha, Co. Chorcaí |
3,000.00 |
- |
- |
|
16 |
South Wind Blows |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
- |
14,051.00 |
|
17 |
An Diseart |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
- |
15,000.00 |
|
18 |
Teach Damhsa |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
- |
15,000.00 |
|
19 |
Comharchumann Chléire |
Oileán Chléire, Co. Chorcaí |
- |
- |
11,550.00 |
|
20 |
Ionad Lae Ghairdín Mhuire |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
7,000.00 |
7,500.00 |
10,365.00 |
|
21 |
Aisteoirí Bhreanainn |
Baile na nGall, Co. Chiarraí |
800.00 |
500.00 |
750.00 |
|
22 |
Beehive Theatre |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
- |
500.00 |
|
23 |
Éigse na Brídeoige |
Ceann Eich, Co. Chiarraí |
1,000.00 |
1,000.00 |
1,000.00 |
|
24 |
Tobar Eoin |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
1,150.00 |
- |
|
25 |
Co. Co. Chiarraí |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
1,000.00 |
- |
|
26 |
Cór & Ceolfhoireann Nua-Cheoil an Daingin |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
800.00 |
- |
|
27 |
Éigse na Gréine |
Ceann Eich, Co. Chiarraí |
700.00 |
800.00 |
- |
|
28 |
Áiseanna na hÓige, An Daingean |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
800.00 |
- |
|
29 |
Comharchumann Forbartha an Leith Triúigh Teo |
An Chlochán, Co. Chiarraí |
150.00 |
800.00 |
- |
|
30 |
Mol Teic An Daingin |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
300.00 |
- |
- |
|
31 |
Dámh Scoil Mhúscraí Uí Fhloinn |
Baile Mhúirne, Co. Chorcaí |
400.00 |
- |
- |
|
32 |
Coláiste Ghobnatan |
Baile Mhúirne, Co. Chorcaí |
800.00 |
- |
- |
|
33 |
Féile Liteartha an Daingin |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
- |
1,500.00 |
|
34 |
Féile Nua Scannán an Daingin |
An Daingean, Co. Chiarraí |
- |
- |
1,500.00 |
|
35 |
Áras Éanna |
Inis Óirr, Co. na Gaillimhe |
16,000.00 |
20,000.00 |
30,000.00 |
|
36 |
Aras Inis Gluaire |
Béal an Mhuirthead, Co. Mhaigh Eo |
- |
12,000.00 |
14,000.00 |
|
37 |
Comharchumann Forbartha Ionad Deirbhile |
Halla Naomh Breandáin, An Eachléim, An Fód Dubh, Co. Mhaigh Eo |
- |
10,000.00 |
12,000.00 |
|
38 |
Ionad an Léinn Éireannaigh |
Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh. |
5,000.00 |
11,000.00 |
- |
|
39 |
Tuismitheoirí na Gaeltachta |
An Cheathrú Rua, Co. na Gaillimhe |
500.00 |
10,000.00 |
860.00 |
|
40 |
Cúl an Tí, An Spidéal |
f/ch Lelia Ní Chathmhaoil, na Minne, Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
10,000.00 |
- |
|
41 |
Forbairt Chonamar Lár |
Teach an Údaráis, Carna, Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
9,700.00 |
- |
|
42 |
Comhlacht Forbartha Inis Meáin |
Inis Meán, na hOileáin Árainn, Co. na Gaillimhe |
2,500.00 |
2,750.00 |
- |
|
43 |
Féile Joe Éinniú |
F/ch Seán Ó hÉanaigh, Baile an tSagairt An Spidéal, Co. na Gaillimhe |
2,500.00 |
2,750.00 |
- |
|
44 |
Cumann Forbartha Chois Fharraige |
An Cnoc Indreabhán Co na Gaillimhe |
3,500.00 |
- |
- |
|
45 |
Coiste Traid Phicnic 2018 |
Ceardlann an Spidéil, An Spidéal, Co. na Gaillimhe |
5,000.00 |
1,000.00 |
- |
|
46 |
Ceol na Locha |
Oifig an Halla, Tuar Mhic Éadaigh, Co. Mhaigh Eo |
3,000.00 |
3,500.00 |
- |
|
47 |
Féile Cruite Acla |
Dumha Acha Acaill, Co. Mhaigh Eo |
3,000.00 |
3,500.00 |
4,500.00 |
|
48 |
Comhar Chumann Ráth Chairn |
Ráth Cairn, Baile Áth Buí, Co. na Mí |
2,000.00 |
8,490.00 |
8,530.00 |
|
49 |
Coiste Féile na Gealaí |
The Cottage, Tlachta, Áth Buí, Co. na Mí |
3,000.00 |
4,000.00 |
- |
|
50 |
Scoil Acla |
An Caiseal, Acaill, Co Mhaigh Eo |
3,000.00 |
3,500.00 |
- |
|
51 |
Éigse an Spidéal 2019 |
Baile an tSagairt, An Spidéal, Co na Gaillimhe |
- |
2,750.00 |
- |
|
52 |
Féile Leabhar Chois Fharraige |
Indreabhán Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
2,000.00 |
- |
|
53 |
Feile Iorrais |
Áras Inis Ghluaire, Béal an Mhuirthead, Co. Mhaigh Eo |
- |
1,500.00 |
- |
|
54 |
Eigse Mhichael Mháire Ghabha |
An Aird Thiar, Carna, Co na Gaillimhe |
- |
1,000.00 |
5,000.00 |
|
55 |
Ionad Óige Iorras Aithneach |
Iorras Aithneach, Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
1,000.00 |
- |
|
56 |
The Journal of Music |
An Spidéal Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
- |
15,000.00 |
|
57 |
Stiúideo Cuan |
Ceardlann an Spidéil, An Spidéal Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
- |
25,000.00 |
|
58 |
Cló Iar Chonnachta |
Ceardlann an Spidéil, An Spidéal Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
- |
15,000.00 |
|
59 |
Áislann Chill Chartha |
Cill Cartha, Co. Dhún na nGall |
- |
- |
14,870.00 |
|
60 |
Comhlacht Forbartha Áitiúil Acla |
Oilean Acla, Co. Mhaigh Eo |
- |
- |
9,150.00 |
|
61 |
Cumann Forbartha Chois Fharraige |
Cnoc, Co. na Gaillimhe |
- |
3,300.00 |
- |
|
62 |
Fíbín |
Baile na hAbhann, Gaillimh |
63,000.00 |
63,000.00 |
76,000.00 |
|
63 |
Ceardlann na gCroisbhealach |
Pairc Gnó Gaoth Dobhair |
52,000.00 |
52,000.00 |
62,000.00 |
|
64 |
Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair |
Gaoth Dobhair, Co. Dhún na nGall |
750.00 |
15,000.00 |
25,000.00 |
|
65 |
Oideas Gael |
Gleann Cholm Cille, Co. Dhun na nGall |
2,000.00 |
2,000.00 |
- |
|
66 |
An Cosán Glas |
Gort ,a Choirce, Co. Dhún na nGall |
11,000.00 |
11,000.00 |
- |
|
67 |
An tSean Bheiric |
An Fál Carrach, Co. Dhún na nGall |
4,500.00 |
13,020.00 |
12,870.00 |
|
68 |
Ionad Phadraig Dobhar |
Dobhar, Co. Dhún na nGall |
- |
300.00 |
- |
|
69 |
Earagail Arts Festival Management |
Aonad 2, Páirc Gnó Chois Abhann, Leitir Ceanainn, Co. Dhún na nGall |
6,000.00 |
6,000.00 |
6,000.00 |
|
70 |
Comharchumann Forbartha Ghaoth Dobhair |
Na Doirí Beaga, Co. Dhun na nGall |
72,500.00 |
90,000.00 |
92,760.00 |
|
71 |
Loinneog Lúnasa |
Na Doirí Beaga, Co. Dhun na nGall |
2,500.00 |
2,500.00 |
- |
|
72 |
Féile Jimmí Mhairí Bhillí |
An tSeanbheiric, Fal Carrach |
1,700.00 |
- |
- |
|
73 |
Éigse na Samhna |
Gort a Choirce, Co. Dhún na nGall |
2,000.00 |
- |
- |
|
74 |
Scol Gheimhridh Ghaoth Dobhair |
Comharchumann Forbartha Ghaoth Dobhar |
- |
2,500.00 |
2,500.00 |
|
75 |
Feile Scéalaíocht na Glaise |
An tSeanbheiric, Fal Carrach |
- |
2,000.00 |
4,000.00 |
|
76 |
Féile Scéalaíocht na Glaise |
An tSeanbheiric, Fal Carrach |
- |
- |
2,000.00 |
|
77 |
Bailte Slachtmara An Clochán Liath |
An Clochan Liath, Co. Dhún na nGall |
- |
- |
15,000.00 |
298. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if, in view of the importance of the car rental industry to the tourism sector, she will meet with representatives of the industry to hear and find solutions for Covid-19-related issues regarding the sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45045/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile I do not have primary responsibility for the car rental sector, subject to diary commitments I am always willing to meet stakeholders involved in tourism to discuss matters impacting on the tourism sector. I would encourage representatives of the car rental industry to contact my office directly in this regard.
299. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she has received the submission by a company (details supplied) to the Tourism Taskforce; if a tourism online voucher system will be introduced that would enable tourism providers to commission promotional videos to market their product; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45081/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI received the Recovery Plan prepared by the Tourism Recovery Taskforce in September 2020. In drawing up its report, the Taskforce held a public consultation to inform its work and received over 800 submissions, including a submission from the company referred to by the Deputy.
My Department’s role in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of national tourism policy development and implementation of that policy is a matter for the tourism agencies. Consideration of operational proposals such as that referred to by the Deputy is a matter for Fáilte Ireland. Accordingly, I have referred the Deputy's question to them for further information and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
300. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will allow indoor sport training for sporting organisations with no national governing body recognised by Sport Ireland such as artistic roller skating; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45101/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the current Level 5 restrictions, no sporting events or training are permitted, except for a limited number of exempted elite and professional sportspeople. This applies to sporting activities organised by recognised National Governing Bodies of sport as well as activities organised by other associations and clubs.
The Government fully acknowledges the benefits of sport and physical activity for people’s mental and physical well-being and has done its utmost to facilitate sport as much as it can within the confines imposed by the public health situation, which remains a serious and ongoing threat to people’s lives. On behalf of the Return to Sport Expert Group, Sport Ireland has issued practical guidance for the sports and physical activity sector, which is available on its website and can be applied by all sporting clubs and groups.
Detailed operating protocols aligned with public health advice will continue to be required, as and when the Government determines that a return to sporting activity can be facilitated. It is also essential that these protocols are underpinned by robust compliance and monitoring structures and processes to ensure effective and consistent compliance and adherence with their requirements, a function which will continue to be fulfilled by the National Governing Bodies under the supervision of Sport Ireland.
The recognition process for achieving the status of a National Governing Body for a sport in Ireland is a matter solely for Sport Ireland, which has the legislative responsibility for the development of sport in Ireland pursuant to the Sport Ireland Act 2015. There are over 60 recognised National Governing Bodies which have each demonstrated their capacity to organise training and competitions in their respective codes and to implement policies for health and safety, safeguarding and other matters. These cover a broad range of sports from field sports, Olympic disciplines and minority sports. There are also a number of sporting bodies which are currently working towards recognition, with the support of Sport Ireland. Further information on the recognition process is available on the agency's website www.sportireland.ie.
301. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if rugby clubs such as a club (details supplied) will be assisted in restarting rugby at senior and underage level. [45143/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe gravity of the current epidemiological situation is such that the Government's clear message is for people to stay in their homes, unless necessary for those essential reasons set out in the public health regulations.
The current restrictions are clear that matches and competitive sporting events are not permitted except for professional and elite sportspeople. This is in recognition of the need to limit insofar as possible person-to-person contact to prevent transmission of COVID-19. The protocols applied for elite sports training and competition are aligned with international best practice and have been developed in consultation with the Expert Group on the Return to Sport.
My Department and Sport Ireland are also engaging with the various sporting bodies to inform a review of the broader COVID-19 measures for sporting activity, which will be considered by Government at the appropriate time. The issue of safely resuming competitions and leagues will form part of the review.
302. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will assist a club request (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45200/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, my Department is responsible for the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme and the club in question successfully applied for a grant under the 2018 round of the Programme.
Separately, the Revenue Commissioners operates the Tax Relief for Donations to Certain Sports Bodies scheme. If a sports club or organisation is acquiring land or buildings, developing facilities, purchasing fixed non-personal equipment for sports activities, or repaying a loan for these purposes, Section 41 of the Finance Act 2002 provides a tax relief incentive to individuals or companies to make a donation towards the cost of these projects.
My Department’s role in relation to this Revenue scheme is to confirm that the projects in question comply with the eligibility criteria for sporting projects and issues a certificate in this regard. In relation to this however, it is a requirement that work cannot have already started prior to the application for the Tax relief. This requirement is set down in Section 847A Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 sub section 4 which states:- "The Minister, on the making of an application by an approved sports body in advance of the undertaking by that body of a project, may give a certificate to that body stating that the project to be undertaken by that body may be treated as an approved project for the purposes of this section".
Unfortunately, my Department has no discretion in relation to this requirement. If however, the club referred to by the Deputy has incurred debts in completing eligible works, it may be possible to claim tax relief for donations used to pay off this debt. In addition, my Department will be happy to consider any request for certification for any future phases of the club’s development plans. Accordingly, the club may wish to contact the Sports Capital Division of my Department (email SportsCapitalProgrammes@tcagsm.gov.ie) to discuss further.
303. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the supports available to independent community theatres to see them through the Covid-19 crisis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1064/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraPrimary support for the arts, including theatre, is delivered by the Arts Council, funding for which has increased steadily in recent years and reaches €130 million in 2021. The Arts Council, which is independent in its funding decisions under the Arts Act 2003, operates within a published ten-year strategic framework entitled Making Great Art Work. The Arts Council supports and develops theatre in Ireland through grant funding, project awards, support to individual artists, and support to venues, publications and resource organisations. Further details of can be accessed on the Arts Council’s decisions database which gives a listing of 2008–2020 Arts Council funding decisions as follows; http://www.artscouncil.ie/funding-decisions/.
At the outset of the COVID-19 crisis, the Arts Council said it will honour all existing funding commitments, and allow grantees to draw down 90 percent of their funding to allow them fulfil in turn their own business commitments, especially to artists.
A range of measures were announced as part of Budget 2021 to support the arts and culture sectors and in particular the music and entertainment sectors. As mentioned previously Government funding to the Arts Council in 2021 will amount to €130m which is an increase of 62% over the amount initially allocated for 2020. Much of this funding is being allocated to the performance arts including those who have never before received funding from the Council.
The Council have in place a number of new and enhanced funding programmes which have been introduced in response to COVID-19. These include:
- enhanced commissioning, projects and bursary awards;
- an Emergency Stabilisation Fund;
- the COVID-19 Response Award;
- a Capacity Building Support Scheme;
- a Professional Development Award;
- the COVID-19 Completion Funding Scheme;
My Department also operates a number of capital investment schemes in respect of cultural venues such as theatres. A number of funding streams are provided from a €40m capital investment allocation for local arts and culture infrastructure contained in Project Ireland 2040.
In response to COVID-19, my Department opened a further stream (Stream D) of funding specifically for capital adaptations or equipment necessary to assist arts and culture organisations in re-opening. Under this stream capital funding is provided to assist in the re-opening of theatres, arts centres and culture venues as part of Project Ireland 2040. 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 Society and Business as well as the Return to Work Safety Protocols. There is a high degree of flexibility which will allow organisations to undertake necessary capital adaptations to their buildings so that they comply with the HSE COVID-19 related public health protection measures. Not-for-profit organisations with a clearly defined arts and cultural remit can apply for this Stream D. Further details of these schemes along with eligibility criteria and other information, can be found at this link https://www.gov.ie/en/service/b61b2-stream-d-of-the-cultural-capital-scheme-2019-2022/
The Deputy has made specific reference to community theatres and may wish to also know that the Department of Rural and Community Development funds a range of programmes and schemes to assist in rural and community development which are available to eligible community groups and organisations throughout the country. These schemes provide funding, support and assistance to communities at local level and include the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, the LEADER programme; the Community Enhancement Programme, the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme; the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the Community Services Programme. Details of how to apply for these schemes are on the Government's website at the following link https://www.gov.ie/en/service/c5849b-rural-funding/
Under the current Level 5 restrictions supports such as the PUP and the CRSS will continue to be made available to those impacted. Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) is also available to help maintain people in jobs. Further details of the range of government supports available to help businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis can be viewed at the following link https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/
304. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will permit one-to-one piano lessons for educational purposes in private homes under the current level 5 restrictions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1154/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s Living with COVID-19 Plan sets out how services should operate at five different levels. The country is at present at Level 5 of this Plan and this applies nationally. The Level 5 restrictions will remain in place until midnight on 31 January 2021.
At Level 5, the public health risk means that people are being asked to stay at home, except for travel for work, education or other essential purposes, or to take exercise within 5km of home. There will be no gatherings other than small numbers at funerals and weddings. No indoor or outdoor exercise group activities, including those involving children, should take place.
Under Level 5, music tuition should take place online only. Furthermore no visitors are permitted in private homes or gardens except for essential family reasons such as providing care to children, elderly or vulnerable people, or as part of a support bubble. Tuition and lessons of any sort for any purpose are not permitted in private homes.
Further details of these restrictions can be accessed on the gov.ie website at the following link https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2dc71-level-5/
It is recognised that this decision will have an impact on people’s lives and livelihoods, but the clear message is that we must all now stay at home, with the exception of essential purposes, in order to stop the spread of the virus. Level 5 of the Plan for Living with COVID-19 means that the virus poses a serious threat and the rate of infection is increasing significantly in the community. The more we work together to reduce the level of the virus, the more activity we will be able to have in our communities.
Supports such as the PUP and the CRSS will continue to be made available to those impacted. The Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) is also available to help maintain people in jobs. Further details of the range of government supports available to help businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis can be viewed at the following link https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/ .
305. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if her Department will provide grant funding to support the commercial live events sector; if the arts and culture recovery task force is giving consideration to the sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1289/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn allocation of €50 million was made in Budget 2021 for the live performance sector. The rollout of this funding will include measures which will build on grant schemes launched under the July stimulus, such as the pilot "Live Performance Support Scheme" and the "Music Industry Stimulus Package". Officials in my Department have gained valuable insights from these schemes and will apply these learnings when allocating funding this year.
The Report of the "Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce" was published on the 17th November last year and recommended the establishment of a cross-sectoral implementation group to oversee and monitor the implementation of the taskforce's 10 recommendations. I recently announced the establishment of the Recovery Oversight Group for the Tourism Sector and officials in my Department are currently working on proposals for an oversight group for Arts & Culture which I hope to establish in the coming weeks.
306. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if public procurement standards apply to sporting governing bodies in receipt of public funds (details supplied); the extent of oversight and accountability which applies to the spending of public funds by sporting bodies; the way it is applied; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1308/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraSport Ireland is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. It also has responsibility for governance oversight of National Governing Bodies of Sport.
I have referred the Deputy's Question to Sport Ireland for direct reply on this matter. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within 10 days.
307. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media when the funding which was made available to Tourism Ireland during Covid-19 will be allocated to coach companies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1718/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraA €10 million fund was made available to help coach tourism businesses deal with the devastating impact of COVID-19. The administration of the Coach Tourism Business Continuity Scheme is an operational matter for the Board and management of Fáilte Ireland. Accordingly, I have referred the Deputy's question to them for further information and direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
308. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the amount allocated in funding for the sports capital and equipment programme in each of the years 2016 to 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1722/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFull details of all allocations under the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme are published on the Department's website at:- https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/471ed5-sports-capital-allocations/) :
In relation to the specific years, the total amounts are shown in the table below. It should be noted that there was not a round of the Programme in all of the years in question and in some cases the allocations were made the year after the Programme was advertised. The amounts also include any special allocations made under the fund.
|
Year |
Total Allocated |
|
2016 |
€30,585,000 |
|
2017 |
€67,331,000 |
|
2018 |
€3,967,092 |
|
2019 |
€58,190,961 |
|
2020 |
€233,861 |
309. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if Sport Ireland will consider erecting signage prohibiting dogs from accompanying walkers and climbers on a mountain trail (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1747/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraSport Ireland Outdoors is a part of Sport Ireland focused on supporting and promoting participation in all forms of outdoor sport in Ireland. Sport Ireland promotes the planning and development of recreational trails and outdoor recreation infrastructure by promoting standards and best practice in the development of walking, cycling and water trails. Sport Ireland Outdoors maintains a National Trail Register of over 900 approved trails that align with the prescribed standards for trails in Ireland. The remit of Sport Ireland in this area is focused on capacity building, advice and guidance.
Sport Ireland does not maintain or manage trails or upland areas in general nor does it provide or erect signage for same. All such work on trails is carried out locally by a trail management organisation for the trail. Where there is not a formally developed and managed trail, in some instances local management organisations may erect signage.
Sport Ireland also provides advice to trail walkers regarding issues with bringing dogs on trails. In relation to formal trails registered by Sport Ireland, advice is provided on Sport Ireland's website, www.sportireland.ie/outdoors/find-your-trails, advising walkers that they should verify whether or not dogs are allowed on trails before visiting them.
I have had enquiries made with Sport Ireland in relation to the mountain trail mentioned by the Deputy. Sport Ireland understands that this mountain trail is a customary route used by hill walkers to climb Caherconree Mountain. It is not a developed or waymarked trail listed on the National Trails Register. Accordingly, Sport Ireland has no direct involvement with this route.
Sport Ireland understands that at other locations which are popular with hill walkers but where there are no formal trails, signage has been erected by a local management organisation e.g. in the Carrauntoohil area by The MacGillycuddy Reeks Mountain Access Forum and in Wicklow by the Wicklow Uplands Forum. Sport Ireland has suggested that the local authority or the local development company may be in a position to address this matter by erecting signage.
310. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the details for her Department for outsourcing to consultancies of specifically Covid-19-related work, services or advice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1800/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe sectors which fall within the remit of my Department have been severely impacted by the restrictions introduced by Government under its Plan for Living with COVID-19 to control the spread of the virus. Tourism, the Arts, Culture and Sport are integral to our society, our economy and our individual well-being, however, they are also public-facing and audience-driven in nature which means they carry greater risks for the transmission of the virus. To address this particular challenge and to support these sectors in operating, where it is determined by Government as being safe to do so, my Department has recently engaged the following two occupational health and safety consultancies:
- SLUA Event Safety Consultancy
- Eamon O'Boyle and Associates
These two companies provide advice and support to the Department and are involved in the Department's quality assurance process in respect of sectoral guidance developed in line with the Government's Plan for Living with COVID-19.
My Department has also commissioned Quadra Limited to support its health and safety workplace assessment for COVID-19 risks at its administrative offices.
311. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the local authorities that employ or do not employ climate action officers; if there is a standardisation of these roles and responsibilities across local authorities in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44764/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each Chief Executive is responsible for the staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authority for which he or she is responsible.
My Department oversees workforce planning for the local government sector, including the monitoring of local government sector employment levels. To this end, my Department gathers aggregate quarterly data on staff numbers in each local authority on a whole time equivalent basis. However, granular data, in terms of the detailed breakdown of the local authorities who employ or do not employ Climate Action Officers is not collected and consequently is not available in my Department. The relevant information would be available from individual local authorities.
There is no national declared qualification for the position of Climate Action Officer.
