Written Answers Nos. 31-50
31. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aindrias Moynihan den Aire Turasóireachta, Cultúir, Ealaíon, Gaeltachta, Spóirt agus Meán cad iad na pleananna atá aici chun tacú le teaghlaigh breis tithe a chur in oiriúint lena bheith ar fáil do na coláistí samhraidh Gaeltachta. [56828/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraÓ thús na bliana seo, bhuail mé féin agus feidhmeannaigh mo Roinne cúpla uair le hionadaíocht lucht lóistín na gcoláistí Gaeilge - atá lárnach i gcóras na gcoláistí Gaeilge ar ndóigh - chomh maith le scáthghrúpa na gcoláistí samhraidh, CONCOS. Rinneadh é sin chun go mbeadh an deis againn clóisteáil uathu faoi na bealaí a bhféadfaí cabhrú tuilleadh leis an earnáil. De thoradh an phlé sin, d'fhógair mé cúig bheartas faoi leith ó bhí mí Márta ann chun cabhrú tuilleadh leis an earnáil.
I measc na mbearta sin d’fhógair mé le gairid go bhfuil iarratais á nglacadh anois ag mo Roinn ar dheontas tosaithe aon uaire ar fiú suas le sé mhíle euro (€6,000) ó theaghlaigh a chláraíonn den chéad uair chun lóistín a chur ar fáil do na coláistí Gaeilge.
Is é cuspóir an deontais ardaithe seo ná cabhrú leis na coláistí Gaeilge tuilleadh teaghlaigh cháilithe Ghaeltachta a spreagadh chun lóistín a chur ar fáil dóibh. Tá an deontas nua seo trí oiread níos mó ná an cúnamh a bhí ar fáil go dtí seo.In éindí le costais faoi leith maidir le fearais maolaithe agus measúnú dóiteáin a bheith san áireamh chun críche an deontais seo, beidh troscán áirithe inghlactha feasta faoi chomh maith.
In éindí leis an mbeart faoi leith seo ar ndóigh níor mhiste a lua chomh maith gur ardaigh mé an ciste atá ar fáil faoin tionscnamh dar teideal DEIS Gaeltachta ó caoga míle euro (€50,000) go dtí ceithre céad míle euro (€400,000) sa chaoi is go mbeadh níos mó deiseanna ná riamh ag lucht freastail iar-bhunscoileanna DEIS na tíre chun dul chun na Gaeltachta agus freastal ar chúrsa Gaeilge. De thoradh an bhirt sin d'fhreastail breis agus ceithre céad scoláire de chuid na scoileanna sin ar an nGaeltacht i mbliana.
Nuair a chuirtear na bearta sin san áireamh in éindí leis na harduithe ar fiú fiche fán gcéad (20%) iad a d’fhógair mé cheana féin ar an deontas a íoctar le lucht lóistín an chórais faoi Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge de chuid mo Roinne, fágfaidh sé go mbeidh cistíocht ar fiú ós cionn cúig mhilliún euro (€5m) á cur ar fáil ar leas na gcoláistí Gaeilge i 2023.
I bhfianaise é seo ar fad, táim sásta go bhfuil mo Roinn tar éis beart a dhéanamh de réir ár mbriathair ar son na gcoláistí Gaeilge ar bhealach a thagann go dlúth leis an ngealltanas ábhartha i leith na gcoláistí Gaeilge atá déanta sa Phlean Gníomhaíochta don Ghaeilge 2018-2022.
32. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she would be in favour of the extension of Ireland's Ancient East marketing brand to include counties such as Antrim, Armagh and Down; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56969/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the National Tourism Development Authority, in line with its statutory functions as set out in Section 8(1) of the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003, Fáilte Ireland’s role is to support the long-term sustainable growth of tourism in Ireland. Its remit does not extend to Northern Ireland. Tourism Northern Ireland, which is an agency under the aegis of the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland, is responsible for the development of tourism in Northern Ireland.
Fáilte Ireland develops, supports and promotes tourism at regional and county level within the State in line with the relevant tourism experience brands, which provide the overarching context for enterprise supports, tourism product development and related marketing. There are four regional tourism experience brands covering all counties of the Republic of Ireland – the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and Dublin .
Tourism Ireland promotes the island of Ireland in more than 21 markets overseas as a compelling holiday destination, using the Ireland brand to position the island as strongly as possible against the more than 200 other destinations with which Ireland competes. Tourism Ireland promotes Ireland's four regional experience brands, as well as Northern Ireland’s experience brand Embrace a Giant Spirit , on a range of platforms, including online, overseas trade platforms and other publicity.
My Department and both tourism agencies will continue to foster north-south co-operation to enhance an all-island tourism offering and grow international visitor numbers to the entire island. My officials continue to liaise with their counterparts in the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland - through monthly meetings and also quarterly operational meetings with both the Department for the Economy and Tourism Ireland.
33. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will ensure that a proposal (details supplied) is given detailed consideration in the context of the further development of Ireland's tourism industry on a cross-Border and all-Ireland basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56963/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the National Tourism Development Authority, in line with its statutory functions as set out in Section 8(1)(a) of the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003, Fáilte Ireland’s role is to support the long-term sustainable growth of tourism in Ireland. Its remit does not extend to Northern Ireland. Tourism Northern Ireland, which is a body under the aegis of the Department for the Economy in the North, is responsible for the development of tourism in Northern Ireland.
Fáilte Ireland develops, supports and promotes tourism at regional and county level within the State in line with the relevant tourism experience brands, which provide the overarching context for enterprise supports, tourism product development and related marketing. There are four regional tourism experience brands covering all counties of the Republic of Ireland – the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and Dublin .
Tourism Ireland promotes the island of Ireland in more than 21 markets overseas as a compelling holiday destination, using the Ireland brand to position the island as strongly as possible against the more than 200 other destinations with which Ireland competes. Tourism Ireland promotes Ireland's four regional experience brands, as well as Northern Ireland’s experience brand Embrace a Giant Spirit , on a range of platforms, including online, overseas trade platforms and other publicity.
My Department and both tourism agencies will continue to foster north-south co-operation to enhance an all-island tourism offering and grow international visitor numbers to the entire island. My officials continue to liaise with their counterparts in the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland - through regular meetings and also quarterly operational meetings with both the Department for the Economy and Tourism Ireland.
My Department will continue to work with the Department of the Taoiseach on implementing our commitments to the North/South development of tourism as included in the Shared Island chapter of the renewed National Development Plan. This includes supporting Tourism Ireland in its mission to grow tourism into the island of Ireland, to promote the recovery of the sector post-pandemic and to work with the Northern Ireland Executive on developing large scale North/South tourism initiatives which will support the sustainable growth of the sector including cross-border walking and cycling trails as well as new marketing opportunities.
34. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the efforts that are being taken by her Department to promote the Irish language in public settings; the steps that she is taking to preserve Gaeltacht areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56215/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the context of my Department’s role in coordinating the implementation of the Government’s Action Plan for the Irish Language (Plean Gníomhaíochta 2018-2022), I recently launched the third annual progress report on its ongoing implementation on behalf of Government.
The plan itself was first published in 2018 in order to accelerate and better co-ordinate implementation of the Government’s overarching 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 which represents Government policy in relation the Irish Language and Gaeltacht regions.
This third report provides an overview of the progress made in 2021 on the implementation of the 180 or so actions contained in the plan itself and its publication is in line with the commitment made to publish such reports on an annual basis in the interests of accountability and transparency.
Key achievements in 2021 include:
- the Official Languages (Amendment) Act 2021 was signed into law on 22 December 2021.
- by the end of 2021 a total of 32 language plans were approved for 25 Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas, 4 Gaeltacht Service Towns and 3 Irish Language Networks (7 of which were approved in 2021).
- 19 Language Planning Officers and 4 Assistant Language Planning Officers were employed under the process by the end of December 2021.in 2021, 2,323 Gaeltacht children benefited from events organised by Tuismitheoirí na Gaeltachta with the support of my department.
- there were 55 active groups within Glór na nGael's Teanga Tí Scheme during 2021, with 12 Teanga Tí groups were established within GAA Clubs.
- capital funding at a rate of 95% was provided for 6 early-years services in the Gaeltacht under the Department's Clár Tacaíochtaí Pobail agus Teanga.
- the derogation of the use of Irish in the EU ended on 31 December 2021. Around 200 people are now employed in high-quality jobs in Irish language units in EU institutions as a result.
- 825 new full-time jobs were created in Údarás na Gaeltachta client-companies in 2021.
- there were 7,809 full-time jobs and 485 part-time jobs in companies that receive support from Údarás at the end of 2021.
- the Board of Údarás na Gaeltachta approved State investment of €8.07 million in employment, plant, training and education grants during 2021.
- up to €13.75 million in capital provision was approved during 2021 to restore and develop the business infrastructure of the Gaeltacht to help develop employment and new initiatives.
A full overview of progress made and in hand is set out in the report itself which can be found on the Department's website.
I am confident that the additional financial allocation for the Irish language announced in Budget 2023, will enable my Department and relevant stakeholders to take further significant strides in advancing implementation of the plan and continue to support and develop greater use of the Irish language both within Gaeltacht regions and nationally.
35. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if additional resources could be made available for Sport Ireland, in order to encourage the participation of young persons, particularly those in disadvantaged areas, in sport. [56826/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIncreasing participation levels in sport for all age cohorts is a priority of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 and is a key objective for my Department. In pursuit of that objective, we are committed to a Sport for All approach aimed at ensuring that all persons have the opportunity to partake equally in sport and physical activity, regardless of age, social-economic status, disability, or membership of, for example, the LGBTI+ community, the Traveller community or other ethnic minorities. Increasing participation amongst these groups is a core objective of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027, and will be an essential action if we are to achieve the target of 60% of the population participating in sport and physical activity.
At the end of November 2021, I launched a new Sports Action Plan covering the period up to the end of 2023; this includes a series of actions and initiatives aimed at increasing participation levels across the board including an Innovation Fund to promote innovative collaborative projects with a view to increasing sustainable participation in sport, an Inclusion, Diversity and Equality Fund, and a youth-centred stakeholder forum to guide the adoption of the strategic framework recommended in the Children’s Sport Participation and Physical Activity Study 2018.
In May 2022, my Department held a Youth Stakeholder Forum on sport where we gathered young people together at the Sport Ireland Campus in order to identify the barriers that are keeping young people from sport, and to gain some insight into how those barriers could be addressed. A report on that forum has been drafted and will help inform and direct the measures my Department takes to address youth participation in sport.
In May 2021, Sport Ireland published its Participation Plan 2021-2024 - Increasing Participation in Changing Ireland. The Participation Plan outlines how Sport Ireland will continue to help people to get active by removing barriers to participation in sport and physical activity in the coming years. Sport Ireland is undertaking several initiatives for children and young people under its Participation Plan. The Sport Ireland Participation Plan actions will be delivered through Local Sports Partnerships, National Governing Bodies, strategic partners, clubs, communities and individuals.
The Sport Ireland Participation Plan is built on, and guided by, the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 (NSP) and the Sport Ireland Strategy 2018-2022. The Participation Plan takes into consideration Healthy Ireland – A Framework for Improved Health and Wellbeing 2013–2025 and the National Physical Activity Plan as well as global and national developments.
As the Deputy will be aware, a current funding allocation of €89.4 million has been announced for Sport Ireland in Budget 2023. This allocation will enable Sport Ireland to continue to support the sport sector next year, including support for increased participation at all levels.
In addition, work is underway to embed the Sport for All approach in funding drawn down from the Dormant Accounts funds that are specifically aimed at increasing participation levels amongst disadvantaged communities and people with a disability. Forthcoming rounds of funding will place further emphasis on the Sport for All approach. The total amount of funding being allocated from the Dormant Accounts funding for such projects this year is €12 million, approximately three times the amount allocated a number of years ago and representing a 20% increase on last year's provision.
Finally, it will be appreciated that if we are to increase participation we need to have the requisite sports facilities. The Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country. The Programme for Government commits to continuing the SCEP and to prioritising the investment in disadvantaged areas.
The final allocations under the latest round of the SCEP were announced in May of this year and the total allocation of over €166 million represented the highest level of allocation ever made under the SCEP. I will announce the exact timing of a new round of the Programme shortly but it is hoped to have it open for applications early in the new year.
36. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the measures that are being considered to develop the Lee Valley as a stand-alone destination for domestic and international tourism markets, given that the N22 bypass is opening for Macroom; her engagement with the various stakeholders to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56933/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraRegional tourism promotion is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland, in collaboration with Local Authorities and other tourism stakeholders, and Fáilte continues to work closely with stakeholders in the Lee Valley area to develop and promote the area as a tourism destination.
The Lee Valley features on Fáilte Ireland’s new look DiscoverIreland.ie website for domestic visitors, which launched in July 2020. The website has been re-designed as a one-stop shop for domestic visitors, showcasing the wealth of things to see and do across Ireland. Research shows that interest in new and off the beaten track experiences and activities are increasing.
The site features unique local content and hidden gems which people want more and more of, as well as the traditional well-known attractions and sights, presented in a way that caters to all visitor demographics and interests. There is a big focus on destinations and interests such as walking, nature and water sports. Research also shows that is what people look for first when planning a break. Walking in the Lee Valley, game and course angling, powerboat and water skiing and golf are just some of the activities featured on DiscoverIreland.ie.
In 2021, Fáilte Ireland launched the Discover West Cork Digital Brochure. The brochure was developed by the West Cork Tourism Network (a representative group which includes Fáilte Ireland, Cork County Council, Pure Cork and local tourism businesses) and features tourist attractions, outdoor activities as well as hospitality businesses. The Lee Valley is well represented within the digital brochure which is being promoted online and the content was used over the summer months as part of Fáilte Ireland’s ‘Keep Discovering’ domestic marketing campaign. With the environment and sustainability in mind, a limited amount of printed promotional material with QR codes for the digital brochure were distributed to tourism businesses to make it easy for visitors to access information on what to do and see in the area. The new brochure is designed to help tourism businesses highlight the standout experiences in West Cork to potential visitors and those planning trips to the area, while encouraging visitors to see more of the area and increase visitor dwell time.
Fáilte Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way team is also involved in a tourism development plan for the Muscraí area working with Comharchumann Forbartha Mhúscraí & GTeic, Údarás Na Gaeltachta, Cork County Council and local businesses. The Slí Gaeltacht Mhuscarí trail in County Cork received funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development to boost outdoor recreation and recreation tourism. The Slí Gaeltacht Mhuscraí is also a section of the Beara Breifne Way, for which Fáilte Ireland completed a Masterplan in 2019 and is currently working to complete detailed design, interpretation and trail upgrades plans, working with local stakeholders, in order to develop the route as an international walking route attraction of scale.
Fáilte Ireland has developed a Destination Experience Development Plan for the Three Peninsulas in West Cork. Recognising that the development of this area will have a positive impact on the wider Lee Valley area Fáilte Ireland has included representation from the area on the implementation group. This is to ensure that the Peninsulas' area is not developed in isolation from the wider area and that lessons learned can be utilised where appropriate in the Lee Valley area also in a supported way.
37. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will consider dramatically increasing the number of participants in the basic income for the arts pilot scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56505/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot scheme was a key priority for me as Minister with responsibility for arts and culture. The pilot was also the number one recommendation of the Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce and I was very pleased to have been able to deliver on this recommendation with the first payments on the scheme being made two weeks ago.
2,000 recipients will be paid €325 a week for three years. 1,000 control group members will be paid €650 per year to engage in the data collection. The scheme will cost €35m per year (€105m in total). The scheme is a pilot research scheme and is operating within a limited budget. It is not my intention to increase the number of recipients for the scheme at this time.
Research findings on the impact of the pilot on the individuals and their practices, the sector and ecology of the arts in Ireland will form part of the pilot also. While I have no plans to increase the number of participants in the pilot scheme, the research involved will inform future Government policy in the arts and has the potential to change the landscape of the arts in Ireland and how we fund it.
38. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the supports available to sporting clubs and associations to deal with the rising cost of energy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56376/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of Budget 2023, €35 million is being made available to help alleviate the impact of increased energy costs for sports clubs and organisations with a view to ensuring that everyone can continue to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity over the winter months.
The Sports Energy Support Scheme (SESS) announced earlier this week is being run by Sport Ireland and the funding will be distributed through the National Governing Bodies of Sport in like manner to the suite of Covid supports provided to the sports sector throughout the past 2 years.
The Scheme will support sporting organisations with the rising energy costs associated with the provision of sport, for example, around increased indoor activity and the provision of outdoor floodlighting, with a particular emphasis on sports clubs with dedicated facilities.
Full details in relation to the operation of the Scheme are available on the Sport Ireland website.
39. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the degree to which she continues to pursue the mission statement of her Department under each heading, with a view to ensuring the maximum support in all situations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56686/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Mission Statement for my Department is
"To lead the sustainable development of Tourism, Media and the Gaeltacht and promote participation in the Culture, Arts, Sports and the Irish language supporting social progress, and enhancing cultural and economic growth across Irish society".
As I have previously advised, in response to Parliamentary Question No 153 of 29th September and Parliamentary Question No 45 of 21st June 2022, my Department's Statement of Strategy 2021-2023, published in August 2021, sets out by sector the actions that my Department is taking to support the areas of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sports, Media and the Irish language.
In addition and in order to meet the challenges arising from cost of living increases and ensure continued supports for the Sectors, on 28th September last I announced details of a €1,142m gross funding allocation for my Department under Budget 2023. This funding support brings a wide range of important new initiatives and a continuation of some existing measures to support further growth and development for these Sectors.
Further information in relation to my Department's policies, initiatives and budget 2023 details, may be found on my Department's Website: (Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport).
40. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will provide an update on the work completed under the safe-to-create programme. [56831/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraLast month, I launched Safe to Create which is a Dignity at Work programme aimed at bringing change on the culture and practices of the arts sector in Ireland. It is a framework of supports to assist organisations to provide safer working conditions for artists and arts workers. The programme is managed by the Irish Theatre Institute, on behalf of the Department and in partnership with the Arts Council, Screen Ireland and Minding Creative Minds. The planned outcome of the Programme is to transform culture and practices through training, information, voluntary compliance and certification, and provide key support for victims/survivors in the areas of reporting, counselling, and legal advice. I also announced funding towards this Programme under Budget 2023.
The Safe to Create website marks the start of this programme of work by providing a Dignity at Work Toolkit for organisations and individuals in the creative sector and this can be accessed at this link www.safetocreate.ie/. This is a resource-rich website, featuring practical information, guidance, toolkits and templates for artists, arts workers and organisations regarding ‘Dignity at Work’ rights and responsibilities.
There is a 24-hour wellbeing and support programme provided to all of the arts, culture and creative sectors by Minding Creative Minds. It now has been enhanced to feature specialist trauma and abuse counselling for victims of harmful behaviour. The programme includes a free 24/7 dedicated phone line; confidential one-to-one counselling; and access to legal advice.
A training programme has been developed specifically for the arts and creative sectors on ‘Dignity at Work’ issues, including topics of tackling bullying and harassment, and unconscious bias (created in partnership with Screen Ireland). Bystander training with Screen Ireland is in development.
A Code of Behaviour has been developed that organisations are asked to adopt, to enable arts and creative organisations to create workplaces free from bullying, harassment and intimidation. The Code is accessible on the ‘Safe to Create’ website, along with a register of organisations and individuals who have formally adopted and signed.
The Irish Theatre Institute (ITI) is currently running a series of Code on the Road Workshops which will be going to four locations across the Island of Ireland over November. Further venues will be organised in the new year.
There are a number of items in development which includes a research programme of further study to examine the prevalence and impact of harmful behaviours in Ireland’s arts sector; as well as to measure the impact of the ‘Safe to Create’ programme.
In the coming months, ITI and department officials will be working with its partners to implement and promote these supports, to monitor the impact of measures taken and to collaborate with appropriate agencies to build effective monitoring, accountability and oversight mechanisms for harmful behaviour in the workplace in the arts sector in Ireland.
42. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media when the National Famine Commemoration Committee last met; if a rotation of venue by province remains the policy for the National Famine Commemoration Day; and if it is intended to proceed with an international/twinning An Gorta Mór day in 2023 as previously outlined. [56971/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I previously advised the Deputy in my response to Parliamentary Questions Numbers 48 and 49 of 9th November last, the National Famine Commemoration Committee has responsibility for considering arrangements.
The Committee, which last met in December 2021, will meet shortly to consider arrangements for the 2023 Ceremony and will reflect on the experience of the last two years in putting forward proposals for 2023.
43. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if specific funding along with the peace plus programme will be available over the next few years to develop cross-Border tourism projects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56964/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, the PEACE PLUS 2021-2027 programme presents an excellent opportunity to deliver North-South co-operation projects in the border counties and tourism is one of the investment areas identified under the programme.
Since 2019, officials in my Department have been engaging with their counterparts in the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland and with the three tourism agencies on the island – Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland - to identify possible tourism initiatives or pipeline projects that may qualify for PEACE PLUS funding.
Department officials, both North and South, continue to engage with the three tourism agencies and the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) in advance of Calls for Applications, after which a joint tourism proposal will be submitted to the SEUPB for consideration for programme funding.
44. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will provide a report in relation to the large-scale sports capital programme by the overall list of the grants that have been made available to successful applicants under this scheme, a list of the clubs that made valid appeals under the programme, the grant amounts awarded to clubs that successfully appealed her Department's decision not to award grants, a list of valid appeals under the programme which her Department has on hand for more than two years; when those clubs that have lodged valid appeals under the programme can expect a decision on their grant applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56504/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) was launched in 2018 to provide Exchequer support for larger sports facility projects, with at least €100 million being made available over the period to 2027.
The first allocations under the LSSIF were announced in January 2020 and, thus far, approximately €86.4 million has been awarded to 33 different proposals. The projects that received provisional allocations and the amounts provisionally awarded to them are published on the Department's website at www.gov.ie/en/service/4113b3-large-scale-sport-infrastructure-fund-lssif/. The rules of the scheme, the assessment process and appeals process are also published on that page.
The total funding applied for under the scheme significantly exceeded the amount available to allocate and it was not possible to allocate grants to many worthy projects. It was also not possible to provide all successful applicants the full amount sought.
While the priority in the short term is to advance the projects that were allocated funding, as it is now two years since the first allocations were made, and in view of the issues faced by grantees as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was considered timely to review progress on all projects allocated grants and meetings with all grantees have now taken place. It is encouraging that, based on these discussions with grantees, 22 of the 33 projects should be in a position to drawdown funding in 2023. Accordingly, I expect to see significant progress on many of the LSSIF projects in the short to medium term and there is unlikely to be any savings in the relevant subhead next year to allow a reallocation of funding.
In relation to appeals, all unsuccessful LSSIF applicants were given the opportunity to appeal the Department’s decision if it was felt that an error was made in the assessment process. By the deadline, (14th February 2020), 6 appeals were received, consisting of five under Stream 1 (Design) and one under Stream 2 (Construction). The table below provides further detail of these appeals.
|
Organisation |
Project |
Funding Sought |
Stream |
|
Westmeath County Council |
Mullingar Regional Sports Centre |
€407,546 |
1 |
|
Dublin GAA |
Spawell Cluster Facilities |
€635,000 |
1 |
|
Irish Squash CLG |
Irish Squash Regional Training Centre |
€46,970 |
1 |
|
Kildare County Council |
Development of a swimming pool / multi use facility in Maynooth |
€700,000 |
1 |
|
FAI |
Drogheda Stadium |
€420,000 |
1 |
|
Clare County Council |
A Flood-Lit All-Weather pitch at Clare GAA Centre of Excellence, Tulla |
€1,161,129.28 |
2 |
All appeals were assessed by officials who were not involved in the initial assessment process but no errors were discovered.
45. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the way in which funding provided by her Department in the arts sector is helping revitalise rural Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56911/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Creative Ireland Programme is a culture-based initiative in my Department designed to promote individual, community and national wellbeing. Under its Creative Communities initiative, in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, over €28 million has been allocated since 2018 to the 31 local authorities to empower and support community-led participation. Creative Communities delivers investment directly into local creative economies through their local authorities with over €936,000 for example being invested through Cork County Council since 2018. This includes over €68,000 for the Munster Animation Forum this year. Also through Creative Ireland, my Department works closely with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to maximise the potential for the creative industries to support employment, including in rural areas, through the development of a roadmap to support the sector.
My role as Minister with responsibility for leading the co-ordination of the Decade of Centenaries Programme (2012-2023) is to help ensure that the challenging events of this important and formative period in our history and related themes, are meaningfully, proportionately and sensitively remembered. I allocated €5 million to support the 2022 commemorative programme to deliver rich and diverse national and local programmes marking the significant centenaries arising in 2022. Many of these investment programmes are delivered through the local authorities.
My Department also provides funding to support Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann which is the largest group involved in the preservation and promotion of Irish traditional music both at community and national level. Annual funding is provided to CCÉ for its work in the protection and promotion of Irish traditional music and culture.
My Department run a Small Scale Local Festivals and Summer Schools Scheme. The Scheme is designed to support local cultural festivals and summer schools which are not in receipt of other central Government monies, and which may not be eligible under funding criteria for larger scale events supported by Fáilte Ireland, the Arts Council and similar bodies.
I announced an additional €10m in 2023 to fund the Basic Income for the Arts pilot scheme, a three year, €105m scheme involving 2,000 artists and creative arts workers many of whom work from rural locations which will support each beneficiary in developing and sustaining a professional arts practice.
My Department is exploring options for up to €2m in capital supports for stakeholders in the Night Time Economy in the context of the implementation of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce Report. This is in addition to €4m in current spending for a range of initiatives and pilot projects to support a more vibrant and diverse Night-Time Economy including venues in rural Ireland.
Much of the nationwide infrastructure of venues and arts centres were initiated and funded by local authorities including those serving rural areas. My Department focuses on providing capital grant funding to assist and maintain these arts and cultural facilities. Funding is administered through applications received for specific Grant Schemes. Under Budget 2023, I announced €7m in additional capital funding for artists’ spaces and climate adaptation, including a new scheme, details of which will be announced shortly.
A full list of capital projects supported nationwide can be viewed on my department’s website at the following link www.gov.ie/en/publication/b1eab-creative-arts-grants-and-funding-previous-schemes/.
My Department also supports smaller capital schemes on an annual basis, including the Music Capital Scheme which is managed by Music Network. This provides funding for the purchase of musical instruments to both non-professional performing groups/ensembles and professional musicians. The Regional Museum Exhibitions Scheme provides funding support on an annual basis for local, regional and specialised museums, to promote and enhance the marketing of these institutions through the provision of funding for capital exhibition costs.
My Department continues to invest in the development of the arts and artists countrywide with the record €130m annual funding for the Arts Council now in place for the third year running.
In response to Covid-19, capital funding towards the pilot Outdoor Public Space Scheme 2021 by my Department funds local authorities to adapt, equip or otherwise improve public spaces for cultural and events activities, taking account of public health guidelines and of the needs of the local arts community. Outdoor public spaces can provide year-round use can improve well-being and contribute positively to the public realm. Two projects in Cork city (Elizabeth Fort on Barrack Street) and county (Youghal) are being progressed by the local authorities under this scheme.
46. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will outline her proposals in respect of a current bid by Ireland to host a Tour de France stage. [56855/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra64. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will provide an update on Ireland's participation in a joint bid to host the Tour de France. [56832/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 64 together.
The Tour de France is the biggest cycling race in the world and I have discussed on a number of occasions over the past year with my counterpart in Northern Ireland, the then-Minister for the Economy (which encompasses tourism), what a wonderful event it would be for the whole island if we could co-host a future Grand Départ, the opening 3 stages of the race.
We promote the entire island of Ireland as a tourism destination via Tourism Ireland, a key North-South agency, and we believe that the television and other media audiences that the Tour attracts would provide a great opportunity to show off the incredible scenery, history and visitor attractions that we have throughout the island.
We have also discussed the cross-border benefits of positive collaboration between our respective teams, and the wider community, on such an exciting project. We agreed that an all-Ireland bid could tell a powerful story and show our shared island in a really positive light. This is the context to the joint letter of interest which my office issued last month to ASO, the Tour de France organisers, and we are now following up on this interest.
My officials have engaged with counterparts in Northern Ireland on the establishment of a project group to scope out the details of a bid and the first meeting of this group will take place later this month. A meeting has also been scheduled with the Tour organisers to outline our shared interest in making a bid and also to fully understand what the Tour looks for in a successful Grand Départ.
47. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the extent to which she proposes to maximise Ireland's culture at home and abroad, with a view to ensuring maximum benefit therefrom; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56687/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department’s Arts and Culture programme aims to promote and develop Ireland’s world class artistic and creative strengths at home and abroad, maximising their societal and economic value for the country, and supporting the Arts, Culture and Creative sectors to continue to develop and expand. Some notable initiatives include:
- The retention of the record €130m funding for the Arts Council in 2023 in recognition of the transformational impact of this funding and to support artists and arts organisations as we look to further develop the sector.
- €35m in 2023 to fund the Basic Income for the Arts pilot scheme, a three year, €105m scheme involving 2,000 artists and creative arts workers which will support each beneficiary in developing and sustaining a professional arts practice.
- €2m increase in funding for Culture Ireland for the promotion of Irish arts worldwide.
- €7m in additional capital funding for artists’ spaces and climate adaptation.
- An additional €2.5m for the National Cultural Institutions which present and protect the objects and artworks in our national collections. The NCIs have been central to the Decade of Centenaries, telling our important stories through the art and artefacts they hold.
- €6m for a range of initiatives and pilot projects to support a more vibrant and diverse Night-Time Economy.
- I engage with my counterparts in the EU Member States at EU Council meetings to discuss cultural policy development and ensure that Ireland’s perspectives are reflected.
- Dublin is officially designated as a UNESCO City of Literature and Galway as a UNESCO City of Film. These awards are permanent designations helping to promote Ireland as a creative, culturally rich and dynamic country.
- Ireland has been successful in having four elements of our living heritage inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity; Uilleann Piping in 2017, Hurling in 2018, Irish Harping in 2019; and Falconry in 2021.
- In 2019, Ireland officially launched its National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which to date comprises over 38 inscribed ICH practices. My Department continues to receive applications to the national inventory on an ongoing basis.
48. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her views on the prospect of the introduction of varying VAT rates for different parts of the tourism sector; if she intends to raise this with the Minister for Finance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56970/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraResponsibility for rates of VAT rests with the Minister for Finance and when the 9% VAT rate for tourism and hospitality was introduced it was initially planned to last 14 months, from 1 November 2020 to 31 December 2021. This was then extended for an additional 8 months to 31 August 2022 and was then further extended to 28 February 2023. The Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe, has stated that it is not proposed to extend the lower rate beyond this date, a decision that is predicated on foot of evidence of a strong recovery for the tourism sector over the past six months. However, given the uncertainty ahead, I am conscious that we must remain vigilant to any downturns in that recovery in the coming months.
On the prospect of the introduction of varying rates for different parts of the tourism and hospitality sectors Minister Donohoe has confirmed that it is possible to have different rates for the hospitality and accommodation sectors. However, the Minister has also pointed out that the hospitality sector accounts for 70% of the cost of the reduced VAT measure with tourism accommodation accounting for 30% and accordingly any proposal for retaining the lower rate of VAT for the hospitality sector, for instance, would have a significant cost.
49. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media further to Parliamentary Question No. 604 of 26 April 2022, if the national swimming strategy working group has been established; if so, the membership of this group; when she expects the group to hold its first meeting; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56523/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraWork has commenced on the development of the first National Swimming Strategy based on a vision to ‘provide everyone in Ireland with an opportunity to swim’.
The Working Group tasked with the detailed work of preparing the strategy is chaired by my Department and comprises representatives from relevant National Governing Bodies for sport and stakeholders, specifically Swim Ireland, Sport Ireland, CARA, Ireland Active and Local Authorities (via the County & City Management Association). The Group has met on four occasions to date, most recently on the 15th of November.
An extensive consultation process has been undertaken with both stakeholders and the wider public as part of the Strategy, with a public consultation process having run from 9th September to 7th October. Work is now ongoing on the analysis of the very large number of responses received to ensure that the Strategy encompasses all of the issues raised and views expressed to the greatest extent possible.
50. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her plans to financially support the Irish women's football team following their success in getting to the World Cup finals in summer 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56983/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThis is a hugely exciting time for women’s football in Ireland. The wonderful achievement of the Irish women's team in qualifying for next year’s World Cup Finals presents a real opportunity to grow the women’s game even further at all levels including the women’s national league.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) launched its 2022-2025 Strategy in February this year and developing the full potential of football for women and girls is a core objective of that strategy. I note also that a separate Women and Girls Football Development Plan is expected to be finalised shortly by the FAI and that they have recently announced a recruitment process for a Head of Women’s and Girls football to continue the development of the women’s game.
Government funding is provided to the Football Association of Ireland to support increased participation in football by women and girls, including support to the FAI in Women in Sport funding for 2021 and 2022.
In accordance with the Government’s Memorandum of Understanding with the FAI, €5.8 million will be allocated to the FAI for football development each year between 2020 and 2023.
