Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:214. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the new studio space that has been developed by Government since June 2020. [32166/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 21 June 2022
Ceisteanna (214, 225)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:225. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the measures she has supported to increase the provision of affordable workspaces for artists and creative practitioners since June 2020. [32178/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 214 and 225 together.
I am critically aware of the pressures that artists and creatives face in finding suitable workspaces. The shortage of workspaces is particularly acute in Dublin and there are deficits to a lesser extent in other urban areas.
Arts and Culture capital developments are most often initiated, led and project managed by Local Authorities with funding provided by Government Departments. Over the past decade or so, a nationwide network of venues, arts centres and studios were provided in this way with funding from my Department. In recent years, significant funding for projects such as these is available from the Urban Regeneration & Development Fund in the Department of Housing and the Rural a Regeneration & Development Fund at the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The situation in the Dublin City Council area is particularly acute. My Department allocated €3m to Dublin City Council specifically for the provision and development of artists’ work spaces in Dublin. Recently, officials in my Department have met with Dublin City Council to discuss artists’ studio space in Dublin in particular. Following on from this, I have asked officials to arrange a three-way meeting between the Department, Dublin City Council and the Arts Council, to see how we can accelerate developments in Dublin. The Arts Council provides the current funding for the ongoing operation of many artists facilities. I have recently met with the Arts Council to discuss a range of issues, including Artists’ studios.
I have been proactive in providing a strong suite of supports for artists throughout the pandemic, including the introduction of a pilot basic income for artists. I can assure Deputies that supporting the provision of spaces for artists to pursue their craft is a priority for me.