The Arts Council wishes to retain a research consultant to update and expand The Public and the Arts (1994) improving the quality of data on public behaviour and attitudes to the arts in Ireland in 2006. This invitation to tender is aimed at professional researchers and research teams with proven research expertise. It is not specifically intended for specialised arts consultants. Research Objectives

Gather data on public behaviour and attitudes to the arts in Ireland in 2006, comparable to that contained in similar Arts Council studies conducted in 1983 and 1994, to measure and track trends and changes over time.

Expand the scope of data on public behaviour and attitudes to the arts collected, in accordance with developments in the arts in Ireland since 1994, including collecting baseline data on new and under-represented groups.

Provide an overview of arts policy and practice since 1994 to set the context for analysis of public attitudes and behaviour to the arts in Ireland, and the extent of change between 1994 and 2006.

Conduct a comparative analysis of public behaviour and attitudes to the arts in Ireland with that in evidence internationally, as documented in contemporary arts research.

Present key findings for use by the Arts Council and other stakeholders (in the arts and related disciplines), to inform future expenditure, policy making and creation of responsive supports for the arts in Ireland.