The Arts Council of Ireland's 2002 Annual Review was launched under a new format by Minister for the Arts, Sport and Tourism, John O'Donoghue TD, in Merrion Square on June 17. The Review has been published by the Arts Council to capture in words and images some of the highlights of the arts in Ireland in 2002, and to document the role of the Council and authorities in supporting artists and the arts. Minister O'Donoghue said the new format is a prompt and approachable way to review the activities of the arts sector in Ireland. 'My contact with the arts community has enriched my understanding of the wonderful creative work that has been achieved, and this handsome publication confirms this impression,' said the Minister. Director of the Arts Council, Partricia Quinn, said: 'As the process of preparing the Public Expenditure gets under way again, the Arts Council and the sector are fully behind him [the Minister] in his efforts to restore funding in 2004, following the painful cuts of 2003.' For further information about the Arts Council of Ireland CLICK HERE.