Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2026
110. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the events in development as part of the presidency cultural programme associated with Ireland's presidency of the Council of the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40393/26]
View answerThe Presidency offers a unique opportunity for Ireland in the European Union to showcase the best of Irish arts and culture, both traditional and contemporary. My Department is developing an expansive culture programme which will ensure that Irish citizens can participate in this occasion and reflect on Ireland’s role in the EU.
In April I announced an allocation of €1.1m to deliver an enhanced programme of cultural activity in every local authority in the country during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This investment forms a key component of the wider culture programme for Ireland’s Presidency. The programmes which will be supported under the local authority strand encompass a diverse array of festivals, family-friendly and community events, exhibitions, concerts, talks and workshops in each local authority area, with every artform represented.
Of course the Presidency is also an opportunity to bring the best of Irish arts and culture to European audiences. My Department, through Culture Ireland will deliver a programme of across Europe presenting the best Irish contemporary artists working today. In addition, there will be an opening event at Dublin Castle and in Brussels to mark the start of Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
I will be announcing details of the wider cultural programme next month, following the official launch of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
