We have issued this special edition of the Newsletter to tell you about a new document, Developing the Arts in Ireland - Arts Council Strategic Overview 2011-2013, and the context for its release.
The last two decades have seen exceptional growth in the arts in Ireland, and the Arts Council is very proud of the central role it has played in this. Ireland now has a well-developed arts infrastructure, with exceptional individual artists, talented arts managers, and dedicated organisations and ensembles right across the country.
Like other areas supported through public funding, the arts in Ireland now face unprecedented challenges. The past two years have seen a decline in our grant-in-aid from government of more than €13 million, and, unfortunately, the prevailing environment is likely to last for a number of years. While it is true that some of the worst effects of the last two years’ decline in funding were mitigated by a range of actions we took, these options are no longer available to us. Any further reduction in grant-in-aid from Government will curtail the Arts Council’s ability to maintain existing levels of provision.
Our responsibility is to plan and provide in good times and bad, with the long-term good of the arts as our
goal. Developing the Arts in Ireland - Arts Council Strategic Overview 2011-2013 is published in a spirit of confidence, tempered by the realism required to plan and provide for the arts at a time of significant difficulty in the public finances. It presents our strategic approach, describing a dual focus on supporting artists and arts organisations and on seeking to increase public engagement and participation in the arts.
To these ends, during 2011 – 2013 the council will provide financial support; act in partnership; provide information and expert advice on the arts; and advocate for the arts. In doing so, we will strive to maintain and develop balanced and sustainable arts provision throughout the country.
http://newsletter.artscouncil.ie/1fd6x0xhxsb1j5ce13c6b7?email=true