Written Answers Nos. 26-56
26. Deputy Joanna Byrne asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to ensure that female sporting organisations receive appropriate attention, recognition and adequate funding from Sport Ireland (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64396/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe participation of women in sport is an important element of both the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 and represents a core priority for me and my Department.
This Government is committed to a "Sport for All" approach aimed at ensuring that all persons can partake equally in sport and physical activity. This commitment is reaffirmed in the Programme for Government and is also reflected in Sport Ireland's Women in Sport Policy.
The Women in Sport (WIS) funding programme, administered by Sport Ireland, was first established in 2005 and since then over €30 million has been invested through the National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) and the Local Sports Partnership network.
This year Sport Ireland announced an investment of €4 million under the Women in Sport programme for 2025. This is vital funding to support sporting bodies, and my Department will continue to support programmes to increase women’s participation in all sports and to progress strategic objectives for women in sport across all areas including active participation, coaching, officiating, and leadership.
With regards to NGB recognition, Sport Ireland runs a formal process whereby NGBs can apply for recognition, and in turn receive funding and support. Decisions relating to recognition are entirely a matter for Sport Ireland and I have no role in the process.
As set out in its NGB Recognition Criteria, Sport Ireland recognises one governing body per sport. In the case of the sport referred to by the deputy, Snooker & Billiards Ireland (SBI) is the Sport Ireland recognised NGB for snooker and billiards in the State. Sport Ireland has never recognised the other bodies referred to by the deputy and has no formal relationship with them.
I understand that SBI has in the past redirected funding secured through the Sport Ireland WIS Programme towards one of the bodies referred to by the deputy but that it is now retaining this WIS funding to fund its own activities to support the development of women's snooker and billiards.
It is important to note that SBI, like all NGBs, is an independent autonomous organisation and, as such, is responsible for its own governance and membership structures.
As Minister for Sport, I will continue to tackle issues to ensure that women’s sport reaches parity with its male equivalent and that females do not drop out of sport due to a lack of adequate training facilities or access to opportunities.
27. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the current funding allocations for grassroots sports infrastructure in Dublin Bay North, with specific reference to pitch capacity pressures facing clubs on Dublin’s northside; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64588/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraSport and physical activity are hugely important to our collective wellbeing and health, so it is in our national interest to promote increased participation in sport and activity at all levels, locally and nationally.
Availability and ease of access to sports facilities, whether in a club setting, on public lands or in other amenity areas, is a key factor in drawing more people to participation in sport. Planning for future facilities’ needs, locations and types is a particular focus of our current Sports Action Plan.
However, the use to which lands are put is ultimately a matter for the relevant local authority and my Department does not fund the acquisition of land for sport. However, where land is in use for sport, my Department operates two relevant capital funding programmes, namely the Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF) and the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). In 2024 over a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to community sports clubs and facilities from the CSFF while grants totalling €173 million were awarded from the LSSIF. This is a an all-time record investment level in sport in Ireland.
Given the challenges of increased demand and a growing population, I consider that there is real merit in the development of municipally-backed shared facilities and I encourage sport National Governing Bodies and local authorities to collaborate in this regard.
I have asked my Department to prepare for a further round of the CSFF in 2026. It is anticipated that the next CSFF round will particularly target areas and sports that have been under-invested in over the years.
28. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport his plans to increase long-term investment in arts and cultural infrastructure in County Louth; if he will commit to a dedicated funding stream to support regional venues, creative hubs, and community arts organisations that are struggling to meet rising operational costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64317/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs outlined in the Programme for Government, the Government believes that culture and the arts are essential to a well-rounded society, providing opportunities for education, expression and community engagement. My Department is taking a number of steps to improve, increase and widen access to the arts.
A network of cultural infrastructure exists throughout the country, with the majority in the ownership of local authorities. Annual support, including programming and revenue supports, is provided to this arts and culture infrastructure by local authorities and the Arts Council. I am informed that in Co Louth in 2025, the Arts Council made grants under is Arts Centre funding scheme totaling €440,000 to Droichead Arts Centre in Drogheda and An Táin in Dundalk.
In Budget 2026, my Department was allocated €6m for a new programme of capital funding for arts and culture organisations across the country, in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government. This will see much needed capital supports for arts and culture organisations.
My Department is in the process of designing the specifications of the scheme, including the setting of eligibility criteria. This will need the approval of the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation before it is formally launched.
In the interim, capital funding is available under Stream E of the scheme which was launched in June 2023. Grants of up to €50,000 are available to not-for-profit arts and cultural organisations.
29. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if there are plans to increase funding for high performance coaching; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64558/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFor the Paris Olympic cycle 2021-2024, the Government provided a record-level investment of approximately €89 million towards high performance sport. This was a substantial increase on the €59 million invested for the previous Tokyo cycle.
€27 million will be invested in high performance sport in 2025, which encompasses coaching both through grants to National Governing Bodies and through the Sport Ireland Institute. This is in line with the Government’s target of delivering €30 million in funding per annum for high performance sport by 2027, as set out in the National Sports policy 2018-2027.
This approach reflects Sport Ireland’s High Performance Strategy 2021-2032, which provides the overarching policy framework for the development of the high-performance system for the next two Olympiads in Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032.
As part of this overall funding package, the International Carding Scheme provides financial support to athletes for their training and competition programmes. In 2025, Sport Ireland will invest €4.5 million under the International Carding Scheme and the Player Funding Scheme (Men’s and Women's Senior teams). Through the Sport Ireland International Carding Scheme 129 individual athletes and others on relay teams will be supported across 16 sports.
For 2026, €28.5 million was allocated towards high-performance sport in Budget 2026, an increase of €1.5m on the funding being provided in 2025.
With the benefit of considerable support from the Government, I am confident that Team Ireland's participation in the next Olympic Games will build on the successes of recent Games.
30. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the steps his Department is taking to encourage teenagers to participate in sport. [64567/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra60. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to detail his Department’s engagement with Local Sports Partnerships in promoting youth participation in sport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64380/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 60 together.
This Government is committed to a "Sport for All" approach aimed at ensuring that all persons can partake equally in sport and physical activity regardless of gender, age, disability, socio-economic status, or membership of any minority group.
The Irish Sports Monitor (ISM) 2024 survey indicated that active sports participation has reached its highest ever level with 49% of the population taking part in sport on a weekly basis.
This increase in sports participation is being driven in part by the increasing number of teenagers and young adults in Ireland. This population cohort has the highest sports participation rates of all age groups.
Sport Ireland's network of Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) plays a crucial role in implementing the National Sports Policy and increasing participation levels in sport and physical activity particularly in underrepresented groups. The LSPs deliver targeted programmes to a range of cohorts, including young persons, women and girls, aimed at increasing sport and physical activity participation levels in their local community.
In 2025, the LSP network received €11,945,000 in core funding and this was supplemented by additional investment from other funding streams, including Dormant Accounts Funding (DAF) and the European Social Fund (ESF+) Programme.
The DAF and ESF+ funding streams are being utilised to fund programmes and initiatives that provide opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity for at risk young persons and those from disadvantaged communities.
Sport Ireland has developed the 'Her Moves' campaign in order to address the high-drop out of teenage girls from sport. The campaign seeks to empower and inspire teenage girls to be active in their own way. A feature of the programmes is the wide ranging and diverse offering with a focus on beginner opportunities and often linked with creative interests to cater for as many teenage girls as possible
LSPs have delivered 'Her Moves' programmes and events to over 4,250 teenage girls in a mix of community, club and school settings. Sport Ireland hosted the first ever Her Moves Festival in May at the National Indoor Arena, with more than 2,000 teenage girls from more than 35 schools in attendance.
.As Minister for Sport, I will continue to promote sport to young people and work to remove any barrier to their participation.
31. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport for an update on the development of the national cricket stadium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64632/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2025, the revised National Development Plan reiterated the Government’s commitment to the continued development of the Sport Ireland Campus, including the National Cricket Centre (NCC).
The delivery of the NCC is in keeping with key Government priorities as set out the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 and my Department’s Statement of Strategy, which includes a high-level goal to continue to invest in new sports facilities, high performance athletes and the hosting of major events.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that I approved the Pre-Tender Estimate on 13 November 2025, clearing the way for Sport Ireland to proceed to tender for phase 1 of the new National Cricket Stadium. Phase 1 will deliver the main field of play, 4,240 spectator seats, a high-performance centre and player and match officials building. The project will also include supporting infrastructure. Planning permission for Phase 1 of the project was granted by Fingal County Council on 11 November 2025.
Sport Ireland commenced the tender process on 14 November 2025 and a Final Business Case will be submitted for Ministerial approval following the completion the tender phase in early 2026. It is anticipated that construction will begin in the Spring of 2026.
This phasing approach to the overall project will ensure that an appropriate facility is in place in time for for the 2030 T20 World Cup, which Ireland will co-host,
The NCC will play a crucial role in addressing the need to provide world-class cricket facilities by providing playing, training and practice facilities to enable Ireland’s elite teams to compete at the highest international levels. It will also provide Cricket Ireland with the facilities to assist it in growing participation in cricket, and to enable Ireland to compete as a host nation for major cricket events.
33. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport that funding will be made available in 2026 to enhance and develop community sports, arts, and cultural facilities in rural towns and villages across Cork northwest, particularly where existing amenities, such as community halls and playing fields, need upgrading; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63982/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs announced as part of Budget 2026, my Department is in the process of examining a further capital scheme of funding for arts and culture organisations across the country, in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government.
My Department is in the process of designing the specifications of the scheme, including the setting of eligibility criteria.
With regard to Sport, my Department operates two capital funding programmes, namely the Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF) and the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Sporting organisations from across the country can apply directly for the CSFF, however they must make their application for the LSSIF through either a National Governing Body or Local Authority.
Over a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to 3,048 community sports clubs and facilities in 2024 from the 2023 round of the CSFF, representing the largest-ever investment in sports facilities in communities across Ireland. Of this, over €29m was allocated to 344 sporting projects in Cork, while almost €54m has been allocated to 830 sporting projects in Cork over the last 3 rounds. Details of all allocation made to clubs are available on the Department's website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-culture-communications-and-sport/collections/sports-capital-programme-allocations/
I expect that a further round of the CSFF will open for applications in the first half of 2026. It is anticipated that the next round of the CSFF will particularly target areas and sports that have been under invested in over the years.
Regarding the LSSIF, my current focus is on ensuring project delivery under the first two rounds of the LSSIF, 2018 and 2024, and this process will inform any decisions regarding the timing of a future round.
34. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the plans which exist to develop creative-industry employment in Roscommon and Galway, such as film, animation, design, and digital content creation, in line with regional development goals; and whether new supports will be provided to encourage young creatives to remain in the region. [64505/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraScreen Ireland provides a range of supports are provided for regional productions throughout the country. In 2024, Screen Ireland invested over €6.5 million in productions, festivals, initiatives and activities that contributed to the nationwide development of the sector, including €4 million awarded through the agency’s Nationwide Additional Production Fund. Screen Ireland also provided funding supports for talent and skills development initiatives across the country, such as the National Talent Academy Network, which includes key bases in Limerick and Galway. In 2025, Screen Ireland ring-fenced funding of €5.5 million for nationwide development and Irish language storytelling. Over 50% of the live action feature film and TV drama in Screen Ireland’s 2025 slate of productions is expected to be produced or filmed on location in regions outside of the traditional filmmaking hubs of Dublin and Wicklow – including counties Donegal, Limerick, Galway, Monaghan and Sligo.
Ireland is home to several world-class film studios, boasting state-of-the-art production and post-production facilities and various support infrastructures which have helped to attract incoming productions from studios and content streaming companies. While many of the main studios are based in the Leinster region, there are a range of non-tax-based supports provided for regional productions.
Screen Ireland’s National Talent Academy network includes the National Talent Academy for Film and Television led by Ardán, the National Talent Academy for Animation led by Animation Ireland, the National Talent Academy for VFX led by Cultural & Creative Industries Skillnet and three regional Crew Academies currently managed by the Atlantic Academy in Galway, Film in Limerick in Limerick and Clermont Enterprise Hub in Wicklow. The network has been established to develop a highly skilled, diverse talent and crew base throughout the country, offering a wide range of activities for the Irish screen industry, including courses, programmes and career opportunities.
Addressing innovation, skills development and sectoral growth, the National Talent Academies is the result of additional stimulus investment provided by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and forms part of a wider strategy to support skills development across all regions of Ireland, with a particular focus on diversity and inclusion.
The overarching aim of the National Talent Academies is to address and support current educational skills gaps in the screen sector. Retaining the diversity and inclusion focus present across all Academy initiatives, its ambition is to drive more Irish talent from all backgrounds and disciplines into the sector and develop greater awareness of the sector as a career path.
35. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the details of payments of sports capital grants to Kildare in the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64557/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department operates two capital funding programmes, namely the Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF) and the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Over a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to 3,048 community sports clubs and facilities in 2024 from the most recent 2023 round of the CSFF, representing the largest-ever investment in sports facilities in communities across Ireland.
A total of €18,235,375 was allocated to 294 sporting projects in County Kildare under the last 3 rounds of the CSFF in 2018, 2020 and 2023. Over the past 3 years, a total of €5,243,317 has been paid in CSSF grants to organisations in County Kildare. Details of all CSFF allocations and payments made to clubs are available on the Department's website
In line with previous rounds of the Fund, a review of the current funding round is being undertaken. I have asked my Department to prepare for a further round of the CSFF in 2026. It is anticipated that the next round will particularly target areas and sports that have been under-invested in over the years.
The total investment under the LSSIF currently stands at €297 million, with funding allocations provided to 68 large-scale projects.
Under the first round of this Fund, St. Conleth's Kildare GAA Grounds was allocated grant funding of €6,031,960 for the construction of a new stand including changing facilities and public toilets. The project also included installation of floodlighting and upgrade works to the pitch. The project is complete and officially opened with €5,730,362 in payments to-date. Further details on allocations and payments under LSSIF are available from the Department's website.
36. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the timeline for the next round of the Community Sport Facilities Fund; if the review for the previous round is completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64585/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra40. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the timeframe for Sports Capital Grant applications to open in 2026; the preparations required by clubs before the announcement of the next round; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64368/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra46. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport to provide an update on when the next round of funding will be made available under the LSSIF and sports capital grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63388/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra51. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the timeline of the next round of sports capital grants; the funding expected to be made available in the next round of grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64621/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 36, 40, 46 and 51 together.
My Department operates two capital funding programmes for sport, namely the Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF) and the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Sporting organisations can apply directly for CSFF funding. Applications for LSSIF funding must be made through either a National Governing Body (NGB) of Sport or a Local Authority.
Over a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to 3,048 community sports clubs and facilities in 2024 from the 2023 round of the CSFF, representing the largest-ever investment in sports facilities in communities across Ireland.
In line with previous rounds of the Fund, a review of the current funding round is being undertaken. I have asked my Department to prepare for a further round of the CSFF in 2026. It is anticipated that the next CSFF round will particularly target areas and sports that have been under-invested in over the years.
In 2024, the second round of LSSIF received an unprecedented demand for funding. On 4 November 2024, grants totalling €173 million were awarded to 35 projects. As a result of the significant demand, a range of valid applications did not receive an LSSIF allocation at the initial allocation stage.
My current focus is on ensuring project delivery under the first two rounds of the LSSIF, 2018 and 2024, and this process will inform any decisions regarding the timing of a future round. No decisions have yet been made regarding the next round of LSSIF.
37. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the timeline for completing fibre broadband roll out in towns with partial coverage under the National Broadband Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64565/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Broadband Plan (NBP) is the Government's initiative to deliver high speed broadband services to all premises in Ireland.
I am advised by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) that there are over 564,000 premises in the Intervention Area and design work has been completed for 100% of these. NBI anticipated they would pass 420,000 premises by the end of 2025. NBI have exceeded that figure in already passing over 430,000 premises in the intervention area and are connecting on average 4,500 premises to their fibre network per month.
NBI also advise that circa 442,880 premises, across all counties in mainly rural areas, can now order or pre-order broadband and over 153,660 premises are already connected.
Based on current plans and achievements, the Department expect to deliver the deployment of the NBP by the end of 2026, as per the Programme for Government commitment.
Further details are available on specific counties and areas which can be monitored via nbi.ie/reps. NBI has a dedicated email address, reps@nbi.ie, which can be used by Oireachtas members for specific queries.
Along with the NBP intervention contract, progress is being made by commercial operators’ in expanding their next generation networks throughout the State and ensuring the targets set out in the Digital Connectivity strategy are achieved.
38. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the supports available to upgrade local sports facilities to ensure full accessibility for children and adults with disabilities in community clubs across Dublin Bay North; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64587/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government sets out an ambitious future for sport in Ireland where equality of access and opportunity is a key theme. Inclusion and diversity is an absolute priority for me in my role as Minister for Sport.
The Sports Action Plan 2024-2027 contains a commitment to increase participation in sport among those with a long-term illness or disability to 40% by 2027. Despite recent progress, there is an enduring participation gradient between persons with either a long-term illness or a disability and those without such illness or disability. Both this Government and Sport Ireland, the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, are committed to making this participation gap in sport a thing of the past.
The Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF) provides grants to assist in the development or refurbishment of sports facilities and the provision of sports equipment. One of the objectives of the Fund is to prioritise the needs of disadvantaged areas and groups (such as people with disabilities) in the provision of sports facilities and increase female participation in sport.
Over a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to 3,048 community sports clubs and facilities in 2024 from the 2023 round of the CSFF, representing the largest-ever investment in sports facilities in communities across Ireland.
All CSFF projects must be accessible to people with disabilities and capital projects must conform to the 7 principles of universal design and all gym equipment funded must be accessible to people with disabilities.
39. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the steps he is taking to encourage people who speak the Irish language to progress within the field of arts. [64063/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn regard to Department, Culture Ireland has committed to “Pursue increased number of artists presenting in the Irish language”. To that end, workshops with Ealaín na Gaeltachta, the body responsible for promoting the development of the contemporary and the traditional arts in the Gaeltacht, have been held to encourage artists working through the Irish language to apply for Culture Ireland funding.
I am also informed that Fís Éireann (Screen Ireland), TG4 and Coimisiún na Meán have developed an initiative called Cine4 to encourage and develop original feature films in the Irish language. Projects seeking funding must offer a story-line that has a strong credibility as Gaeilge, prove potential to appeal to Irish and international cinema audiences and demonstrate Irish language capability and gender balance across its creative team. Feature films supported by Cine4 include : An Cailín Ciúin and Báite.
The Arts Council is committed to increasing public engagement in the arts in Ireland and it provides financial support to a number of initiatives aimed at increasing public access, participation and engagement in the arts. I have asked the Arts Council to make direct contact with the Deputy and provide the information requested in relation the steps they are taking to encourage people who speak the Irish language to progress within the field of arts. Please contact my private office if you do not hear from the Council within the next ten working days.
41. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport when his Department plans to invest in a new regional sports complex in County Laois to support community participation, competitive events, and elite athlete development; the timeframes, funding, and stakeholder engagement processes which are planned to deliver such a facility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63401/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile my Department is aware of proposals in development regarding a regional sports complex in County Laois, no application was received in respect of such a proposal under the most recent 2024 round of the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF).
The LSSIF was established under the National Sports Policy, published in 2018, to provide Exchequer support for larger sports facility projects, typically those requiring investments greater than the maximum available under the Community Sport Facilities Fund.
In 2024, the second round of LSSIF received an unprecedented demand for funding. On 4 November 2024, grants totalling €173 million were awarded to 35 projects. Applications under LSSIF must be made by either a Local Authority or a National Governing Body of Sport (NGB). It is a matter for those organisations to prioritise their capital development requirements.
With regard to a future round of the LSSIF, I am committed to ensuring sustained investment in sports facilities to meet our ambitious goals for sports participation nationwide. The Programme for Government commits to maintaining sports funding to get more people participating in all levels of sport, particularly targeting cohorts in society where there is lower than average participation levels.
My current focus is on ensuring project delivery under the first two rounds of the LSSIF and this process will inform any decisions regarding the timing of a future round. No decisions have yet been made regarding the next round of LSSIF.
42. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport for inclusion of Macroom, County Cork in further roll-out or expansion of the Night-Time Economy Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64350/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe development of a diverse and vibrant Night-Time Economy is an important policy area in my Department and we have been developing and supporting a number of key initiatives and pilots right across the country all with the aim of creating a safe, inclusive and diverse cultural offering at night.
The Night-Time Economy Advisor pilot project which arose from a recommendation in the Report of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce is demonstrably one of the most impactful. The aim of the pilots is to stimulate night-time activity at a local level supported by the appointment of a Night-Time Economy Advisor in nine selected pilot locations across the country: Dublin City, Cork City, Limerick City, Galway City, Kilkenny, Drogheda, Sligo, Buncrana and Longford Town. The pilots should also act as blueprint for other locations on how to develop a night-time strategy that is specifically tailored to a local area. My Department has provided funding for a two-year full-time Night-Time Advisor in each of the selected locations and I have committed funding for these posts until September 2026.
This year, following a tendering process, we appointed Communiqué International to undertake an independent review of the Night-Time Economy pilots to advise on possible options in relation to the future of the initiative. The review looked critically at the structures involved in supporting the Advisors, the funding levels, the visibility of each in their respective areas and their impact on the Night-Time Economy in their locality.
I understand that the review of the pilots has now concluded, and the subsequent Report is finalised which details a set of recommendations in relation to the future expansion of the pilots. I also understand that my Officials have undertaken a consultation exercise with the County and City Management Association and the wider Night-Time Economy Implementation Group in relation to the recommendations in the Report.
I am expecting to review the Report in the coming weeks but any decision I will make in relation to the future of the pilots, including any expansion into new locations, will be guided by the recommendations in the Report and the feedback from the wider Night-Time Economy Implementation Group. I will also need to consider and evaluate any prospective changes within the broader context of overall policy and budgetary considerations.
43. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if his Department has received a further update from an organisation (details supplied) regarding a new location for a centre of excellence in Cork; when his Department expects to receive a business case from the organisation outlining the revised location, scope and partnership arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63257/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provided a provisional allocation of €2,025,699 for the Munster Centre of Excellence under the first round of the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Scheme (LSSIF) in 2020. The proposal involved the development of grass pitches, an astro-turf facility, floodlighting and dressing rooms.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) wrote to the Department on 10 May 2023 stating that the Association no longer intended to proceed with the LSSIF-funded Centre of Excellence in Glanmire. According to the FAI, the decision not to proceed with the proposal was due to the fact that the original proposal no longer represented the greatest return on investment for the parties involved.
On 16 October 2025, the Department wrote to the FAI seeking a detailed update, which was received on 21 October 2025. The FAI has confirmed that negotiations are actively progressing with potential partners and that discussions are at an advanced stage regarding a potential new site for the Munster Centre of Excellence. The FAI has advised that it is developing a business case which will detail the revised project location, scope, and partnership arrangements for consideration by my Department.
My officials will meet with the FAI to discuss this proposal when it is submitted and I will revert to the Deputy with a further update thereafter.
45. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the allocation to arts funding in 2025 and 2026 [64551/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAllocations to the Arts and Culture sector are published in the 2025 Revised Estimates Volume for the Public Service. The 2025 allocation to the Arts and Culture sector was €380,993,000.
On 7 October I announced the details of €1,514,678,000 in funding allocated to my department in Budget 2026 which will see increases across all areas, with a total 9.5% rise across the Department. The information requested in relation to the final allocation to the Arts and Culture sector for 2026 will be available in the 2026 Revised Estimates Volume for the Public Service, expected to be published in mid-December.
47. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will consider expanding his Department’s sports capital funding schemes to enable clubs to purchase land for development of playing facilities. [64346/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraSport and physical activity are hugely important to our collective wellbeing and health, so it is in our national interest to promote increased participation in sport and activity at all levels, locally and nationally.
Availability and ease of access to sports facilities, whether in a club setting, on public lands or in other amenity areas, is a key factor in drawing more people to participation in sport. Planning for future facilities’ needs, locations and types is a particular focus of our current Sports Action Plan.
However, the use to which lands are put is ultimately a matter for the relevant local authority and my Department does not fund the acquisition of land for sport and there are no plans to change this position.
Where land is in use for sport, my Department operates two relevant capital funding programmes, namely the Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF) and the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). In 2024 over a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to community sports clubs and facilities from the CSFF while grants totalling €173 million were awarded from the LSSIF. This is an all-time record investment level in sport in Ireland.
Given the challenges of increased demand and a growing population, I consider that there is real merit in the development of municipally-backed shared facilities and I encourage sports' National Governing Bodies and local authorities to collaborate in this regard.
49. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if funding streams are available for large-scale community sports facilities for towns such as Arklow, which has a growing population of over 16,000 people and requires significant investment in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64358/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) was established under the National Sports Policy, published on 25 July 2018, to provide Exchequer support for larger sports facility projects, typically those requiring investments greater than the maximum available under the Community Sports Facilities Fund (CSFF).
The first allocations under LSSIF 2018 were announced in January 2020 with €86.4 million awarded to 33 different projects. Additional funding of €37.6 million was allocated to 27 of these projects in December 2023, bringing the total awarded under LSSIF 2018 to €124 million.
In 2024, the second round of LSSIF received an unprecedented demand for funding. On 4 November 2024, grants totalling €173 million were awarded to 35 projects. As a result of the significant demand, a range of valid applications did not receive an LSSIF allocation at the initial allocation stage.
With regard to a future round of the LSSIF, I am committed to ensuring sustained investment in sports facilities to meet our ambitious goals for sports participation nationwide. The Programme for Government commits to maintaining sports funding to get more people participating in all levels of sport, particularly targeting cohorts in society where there are lower than average participation levels.
My current focus is on ensuring project delivery under the first two rounds of the LSSIF and this process will inform any decisions regarding the timing of a future round. No decisions have yet been made regarding the next round of LSSIF.
50. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport in light of other countries introducing restrictions on social media for under 16s or requiring parental consent, if his Department is considering similar measures in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64061/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraEuropean Union Member States are examining this question of prohibiting access by children and young people to social media platforms – the so-called “digital age of majority”. Australia is implementing such a measure and other jurisdictions are considering similar measures.
Ireland is also considering its approach on this matter. I believe that any decision would be better taken by the EU and EU Member States together and in that regard, it is important to note that the President of the European Commission Ursula van der Leyen announced that she would establish an expert panel to examine the issue and to report by the end of the year. However, across the European Union there are differing views whether there should be an age of digital majority at all, and if there were such an age, what age it should be, and whether it should be an outright ban or a ban subject to parental consent.
In considering this matter, it is important that we include the voice of our young people and have regard to their rights, while protecting them from harm. It is also important that any such measures comply with the Digital Services Act because it is an EU Regulation that requires maximum harmonisation for all EU Member States, including Ireland
Notwithstanding whether a “digital age of majority” is implemented, I believe that age verification is a vital part of the picture in terms of providing real assurance that children are the age they claim to be and to ensure they are not exposed to harmful or illegal content. Without robust age verification, any other measures, including implementing a digital age of majority won’t work. I am working across Government to support robust age verification. In doing so, we must seek to ensure interoperabability and respect users’ rights, including data protection rights. To that end, my officials are working with the Government’s Chief Information Officer and his Office to look at practical technical solutions to age verification as part of the Government's Digital Wallet being developed using MyGovID. I am also seeking the inclusion of a commitment to this effect in the Government’s updated National Digital Strategy which will be published later this year.
I am determined to make progress on this key issue and will work with other EU member states, including in the context of Ireland's Presidency of the EU next year, on effective and practical solutions.
52. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the engagement he has had with museums in other countries regarding the potential repatriation of Irish artifacts on display in their museums. [64064/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe restitution and repatriation of cultural heritage is an important, complex, and sensitive matter, particularly against the backdrop of current world events and discourse. While my Department does not engage directly with cultural institutions in other countries to request the repatriation of items of Irish origin in their collections, my Department is represented on the Advisory Committee on the Restitution and Repatriation of Cultural Heritage. The Advisory Committee is chaired by Sir Donnell Deeny, an expert in this field, and ably supported by the Heritage Council, as Secretariat. Further information about the Advisory Committee's membership and work can be found here - Advisory Committee on the Restitution and Repatriation of Cultural Heritage | The Heritage Councilwww.heritagecouncil.ie/our-work-with-others/advisory-committee-on-the-restitution-and-repatriation-of-cultural-heritage.
As the Deputy will know, this Advisory Committee was established to advise the Government on matters relating to the restitution of historically and culturally sensitive objects in Ireland. The Advisory Committee has been developing policy advice and national guidelines on the restitution of cultural heritage objects in Ireland that may have been illegally or unethically obtained or traded, and its approach is grounded in the research and evidence of best practice internationally. The Advisory Committee will also provide guidance to cultural institutions and other bodies that have responsibilities for managing historic collections, on a range of matters including provenance research.
This expert guidance will assist our National Cultural Institutions in considering any claim received regarding the repatriation of items held in the national collections in Ireland. While the Advisory Committee does not have a specific role in providing advice on Irish items held internationally, the approach promoted by the Advisory Committee will support strengthening relationships with global institutions, which in turn can support reciprocal arrangements between institutions. I am very pleased with the Advisory Committee's substantial progress in this sensitive policy area, and I am looking forward to receiving their report early next year.
53. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will provide an update on funding opportunities to support youth sports clubs and facilities in Cork northwest, particularly in smaller communities where volunteers are struggling to maintain local pitches, halls, and equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63983/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF) is the primary means of providing Government funding to sport and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The Fund aims to foster an integrated and planned approach to the development of sports and physical recreation facilities and assists the purchase of non- personal sports equipment.
Among the Fund's objectives is to assist voluntary and community organisations, national governing bodies (NGBs) of sport, local authorities and Education and Training Boards and schools to develop high quality, accessible, safe, well-designed, sustainable facilities in appropriate locations and to provide appropriate equipment to help maximise participation in sport and physical recreation
Over €277 million was allocated to 3,048 community sports clubs and facilities in 2024 from the 2023 round of the CSFF, representing the largest-ever investment in sports facilities in communities across Ireland. This included funding to maintain local pitches, halls, and equipment. In the 2023 round of the CSFF over €29 million was allocated to 344 sporting projects in Cork and almost €54 million has been allocated to 830 sporting projects in Cork over the last 3 rounds.
In line with previous rounds of the Fund, a review of the current funding round is being undertaken which will be completed in the coming months. I have asked my Department to prepare for a further round of the CSFF in 2026. It is anticipated that the next CSFF round will particularly target areas and sports that have been under-invested in over the years.
54. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will support the creation of a youth culture pass, similar to the KulturPass in Germany, for 18-year-olds in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64568/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs committed to in the Programme for Government, I propose to examine the introduction of a youth Culture Card and its potential to enhance interest in the arts among young people. My Department will lead the assessment of modalities, scope and reach for a Youth Card scheme. Consideration will be supported with advice from my Department, other relevant Departments, the National Cultural Institutions and stakeholders in the arts sector. My officials are in the preliminary stages of reaching out to potential stakeholders and partners in relation to the Culture Card. It is important to ensure that any initiative provides access opportunities for all young people and represents an effective and efficient use of resources.
I am satisfied that the participation of young people is crucial to fostering creativity and advancing the arts throughout Ireland. The introduction of a Culture Card could contribute significantly to this goal. Research regarding arts and cultural participation among children confirms the benefits to children when they engage in the arts in their early years and also indicates that patterns of participation in the arts are set from a very young age. My Department already actively supports a range programmes and initiatives which create opportunities for all ranges of young people around the country to engage with the arts and culture with little or no further participation cost to the public which includes:-
The Arts Council is partnering with the Department of Children, Disability and Equality (DCDE) on an Arts in Early learning & Care (ELC) and School Age Childcare(SAC) pilot. The pilot is being overseen by a steering group made up of representatives from the DCDE Early Learning and Care and School-Age Childcare Division, the Department of Education Early Years Inspectorate, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), this Department and the Arts Council.
The National Library of Ireland provides free online and in-person guided tours of the WB Yeats and Seamus Heaney: Listen Now Again exhibitions to both Primary and Secondary School tours. It also offers a limited number of studentships and internships to suitable applicants, partnering with UCD School of Library and Information Studies, the UCD School of History, the Irish Committee of Historical Sciences, and the Heritage Council of Ireland to offer placements that support the NLI’s work across various fields. These programmes allow students to gain hands-on experience, contribute to research and develop skills that enhance their academic and professional development
The Chester Beatty Library offers an ongoing and regular programme of creative workshops, with a particular focus on well-being, for teens aged 12-17 years known as Chester Beatty’s Creative Lab for Teens and is currently working on an Erasmus grant application to work with young people in the Dublin 1 and 7 areas. The proposal is to look at how the museum and heritage sector can address Education for Sustainable Development with young people.
The National Gallery of Ireland has an active and engaged youth panel, who connect with many teams within the Gallery, and who create events for young people, by young people. The Youth Panel curated the Gallery’s First Youth Festival in 2024 and the 2025 Youth Festival ran from 29th September to 5th October.
It also has an Education Team which includes a Fellow dedicated to programming for young people, supported by the Apollo Foundation since 2019. In 2024, the Apollo Project engaged with 79,928 young people and their communities via 102 events, activities, and pieces of online content.
Creative Ireland’s Creative Youth Plan 2023-2027 aims to embed creativity into the heart of children and young people’s lives. Through a cross-government partnership between this Department, the Department of Education, the Department of Children Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth Affairs, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and the Arts Council, a combined inter-departmental budget allocation of over €10 million in 2025, including an allocation through the Government’s Shared Island initiative, will provide creative opportunities for 0-24 year olds. With a particular focus on ensuring access for children and young people that are seldom heard and at risk of disadvantage, programmes include: -
Cruinniú na nÓg: The annual day of creativity for children and young people up to 18 years of age, took place on 7th June this year in collaboration with all 31 local authorities and 3 strategic partnerships, with all events free to attend. In 2025, over 1000 events took place across the island of Ireland.
I am very conscious that the access provided under official programmes is only part of a wide sphere of activity in the arts. These programmes are complemented by the initiatives on Basic Income for Artists, the availability of exhibition and performance spaces, the provision of art in public spaces and arts content in the media and on online platforms. Access and exposure to the arts from an early age can establish a lifetime interest and a fulfilling appreciation. I intend to explore the contribution a Youth Culture Card could make to encourage that interest and I would welcome the views of Deputies in that regard.
55. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the action he has taken to engage with the Department of Social Protection to ensure artists with disabilities are able to avail of Arts Council funding and the new basic income scheme without fear of losing their medical cards or disability allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64385/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI was delighted to have secured an allocation for a successor scheme to the Basic Income for the Arts pilot as part of Budget 2026. While the detail of the future scheme will need to be agreed by Government, this is a major milestone for the arts in Ireland and I am particularly pleased that the research my Department conducted provided Government with a clear evidence base upon which to make that decision.
Eligibility criteria and parameters for a successor scheme have not been finalised. Stakeholder consultation and engagement with other relevant Government Departments, including the Department of Social Protection, on the design of the new scheme will continue to determine details such as the duration, eligibility and selection method, the details of which have not yet been decided. Once the parameters of the scheme have been agreed by Government I intend to publish them.
In July the Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary launched a public consultation for a new Pathways to Work 2026-2030 national employment strategy. In this context, the Arts Council have engaged with the Department in regard to challenges artists with disabilities in receipt of welfare supports face if they apply for, and receive funding from, the Arts Council or other grant providers.
I have asked the Arts Council to make direct contact and provide the Deputy with further information in relation to this. Please contact my private office if you do not hear from the Council within the next ten working days.
