Paul Murphy
Ceist:138. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the steps he will take to protect Dublin’s nighttime culture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16811/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 3 March 2026
Ceisteanna (138)
Freagraí scríofa
The Night-Time Economy is a cross-government policy initiative, which aims to support the economic growth and cultural vibrancy in our towns and cities after 6pm. In line with the Programme for Government commitment, I have allocated €3 million this year - a 20% increase on 2025 - to support the development of the Night-Time Economy in Ireland and the further delivery of the actions recommended by the Night-Time Economy Taskforce.
The €3 million in allocation will support nine Night-Time Economy Advisors in Dublin City, Cork City, Limerick City, Galway City, Kilkenny, Drogheda, Sligo, Longford and Buncrana. The Night-Time Advisor for Dublin City has been working closely with businesses, communities, venues, residents and artists to create a more vibrant nightlife for all in a safe and sustainable way. The pilot in Dublin city has already yielded a huge range of positive outcomes, particularly in the area of safety at night and the development of a culturally vibrant city. The Advisor is also a critical hub, as many of the issues arising across the Night-Time Economy sector require a multi-stakeholder approach.
In 2025, my Department provided just over €209,000 in funding towards both these salary costs and initiatives relating to the roll out of the Dublin City Night-Time Economy action plan. This included support for Culture Night Late, Brigit Late, St Patrick’s Festival After Dark, ‘Dublin Nights Mapped’, which showcases the range of activities after 6pm and a safety campaign which includes free online vulnerability and safeguard training for venues and businesses at night.
Also, last year I launched a new Scheme with an allocation of €500,000 to help protect and sustain grassroots music venues in Ireland. These are key cultural hubs that provide space for emerging musicians to showcase their talent, gain valuable experience and connections, and develop their following. 34 venues received funding through this, which included 8 venues in Dublin, totalling €90,000.
I have allocated €1 million this year towards a second iteration of this Scheme. Supporting our grassroots venues ensures that the next generation of Irish artists have an opportunity to develop their careers here in Ireland. I’ll be launching this scheme in the coming days.
Finally, my Department is an active member of the Inter-Departmental Group on the Dublin City Taskforce Report, which is chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach which aims to revitalise the city centre, including around the GPO which is my ownership.
Questions Nos. 139 to 145, inclusive, answered orally.