Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
620. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if any mapping exercise has been carried out regarding access to artistic and cultural activities and venues across the country has been carried out by his Department or on behalf of his Department or Departmental agencies; the measures in place to support access in under-represented or under supported areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15115/26]
View answerThe Arts Council is the national government agency for funding, developing and promoting the arts in Ireland. To further the development of the arts across Ireland, the Arts Council lead and collaborate on a number of research initiatives, enabling them to better understand and resource the arts sector including access to venues and activities.
For example, in 2023 the Arts Council carried out a mapping of arts venues which included disability access, facilities, opening hours etc. The Council also run the Creative Places Programme which supports the development of the arts in underserved places that traditionally have not benefitted from sustained arts investment. Nineteen places across Ireland are currently participating in this programme. In addition, the annual festival programme invested €14.7m into 208 festivals in 2025, 80% of most festival programmes are free to attend, which makes the diverse and unique offering of arts and cultural festivals really attractive to audiences, especially families.
I have asked the Arts Council to contact the Deputy directly with more information and further details in this regard. Please contact my private office if you not hear from them within ten working days.
