Cork East Fine Gael TD, David Stanton raised the issue of funding for cultural activities and promotion of Irish culture at local level in Dail Eireann. Deputy Stanton would like to see more funding or supports made availability to community and youth groups engaging in drama, arts, theatre and music.
“We have a rich cultural heritage here and this culture is a vital part of our tourism industry. I believe that if we are to preserve this culture it is important to support local community groups as well as large regional and national cultural institutions such as the National Museum of Ireland, National Gallery, Irish Film Institute, and Cork Opera House which have been supported throught the Government’s Access Programme.
“I questioned the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, Mary Hanafin TD on the availability of state grants for local cultural initiatives as I understand that small community groups are under-resourced and finding it very difficult to secure funding. Minister Hanafin advised that she will look into this matter for me and advise me what funding streams or other supports are available from state organisations.
“I also raised the issue of business or commercial sponsorship opportunities for drama and arts groups. The Minister advised that she believes there is significant potential for individual philanthropic support of culture groups, organisations and events. I would hope that during her time as Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport she does her best to develop philanthropy of the arts.
“We must do all we can to preserve our long tradition of music, drama, poetry, art and literature. Funding for local groups is an essential if we areto support local community groups as well as large regional and national cultural institutions such as the National Museum of Ireland, National Gallery, Irish Film Institute, and Cork Opera House which have been supported throught the Government’s Access Programme.
“I questioned the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, Mary Hanafin TD on the availability of state grants for local cultural initiatives as I understand that small community groups are under-resourced and finding it very difficult to secure funding. Minister Hanafin advised that she will look into this matter for me and advise me what funding streams or other supports are available from state organisations.
“I also raised the issue of business or commercial sponsorship opportunities for drama and arts groups. The Minister advised that she believes there is significant potential for individual philanthropic support of culture groups, organisations and events. I would hope that during her time as Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport she does her best to develop philanthropy of the arts.
“We must do all we can to preserve our long tradition of music, drama, poetry, art and literature. Funding for local groups is an essential if we are to be successful in doing this.
ENDS
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Contact: David Stanton TD, Constituency Office, Tel: 021 4632867
