Statement: Senator Bacik calls for strong role for National Cultural Institutions in Decade of Commemorations

SENATOR BACIK CALLS FOR STRONG ROLE FOR NATIONAL CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS IN DECADE OF COMMEMORATIONS

Senator Ivana Bacik, Labour Senator for Dublin University,
Thursday 7th June 2012

Speaking today in the Seanad during a debate led by the Minister for the Arts, Jimmy Deenihan TD, on the decade of commemorations, Senator Ivana Bacik spoke about the important role to be played by the national cultural institutions in the organisation and celebration of the forthcoming decade.

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Bacik said:

“If our cultural organisations are to respond to current challenges, manage a process of change and reform and play a central role in the century of commemorations then they need independent Directors and Boards.

I think it is important that the Boards and Directors of all of the national cultural institutions, such as the National Museum and the National Library, should remain at arms' length from government in keeping with the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 introduced by former Arts Minister Michael D. Higgins. In this way we will ensure the maintenance of their reputation, both national and international.”

Senator Bacik also welcomed the Minister's response in the Seanad, in which he spoke in support of the principles of autonomy and curatorial independence for the cultural institutions.

ENDS