Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 June 2026
107. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will direct the national cultural institutions not to facilitate events, exhibitions or performances which celebrate, or involve representatives of states accused of genocide and war crimes such as Israel, or who are involved with the military actions of such states. [43462/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department respects the autonomy of the National Cultural Institutions in relation to the programming or curatorial decisions. Each has its own Board and management team that has carefully considered policies in relation to artistic matters. As Minister I do not instruct a particular institution that it must or must not display a particular item or facilitate or not facilitate particular performances.
Ireland has repeatedly advocated for strong action, including at the EU level, in response to persistent Israeli breaches of international law and human rights, including sanctions on extremist settlers, restrictions relating to illegal settlements and the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement. In addition, Ireland has always been committed to working with key partners to end the conflict in Gaza, to addressing the catastrophic humanitarian situation and to advancing a sustainable peace plan.
I am confident that the Boards and management teams of the National Cultural Institutions have the skillset and understanding required to make the decisions that are appropriate for their respective institutions.
