Chairperson of the Economic Development and Enterprise Support (including Arts, Tourism, Culture and Libraries) Strategic Policy Committee, Cllr. Orla Leyden, introduced the contents of the Draft Arts Plan to the Members:

·         In the Roscommon Arts Plan 2023 – 2028, the Arts Office sets out the Council’s vision, mission, strategic priorities and values based on many years of arts development and investment locally, informed by successive arts plans, review and consultation.

·         Strategic actions will be implemented that will have the most impact on arts development and public engagement in the county over the period of the plan.

·          The plan focused on four key areas, namely the working artist, supporting artists and arts professionals; public engagement and supporting children and young people in enriching their lives.

·         Consultation for the Plan included an artist consultation session at Roscommon Arts Centre, online and in-person surveys (150 detailed responses).

·         Following a presentation to the Strategic Policy Committee on PC for Economic Development & Enterprise Support (including Tourism, Culture & Libraries), the pan was recommended by the committee to be considered for adoption by the Plenary Council.

Cllr. Leyden commended the Arts Officer Rhona McGrath for the work on the Plan and noted that the front cover of the plan featured members of the Roscommon County Youth Theatre Group who will celebrate 25years in existence in 2024.

Acting Director of Services with responsibility for the Arts, Fiona Ní Chuinn paid tribute to a strong cultural team in the County Council including King House and the Arts Centre. The Plan is aligned to local policy including the new LECP, and acknowledged the Arts Programme and Creative Ireland funding.

Cllr. Fitzmaurice wished to put on record thanks to Creative Ireland and the provision of other arts funding over the past two years. It has enabled many different groups and entities to provide free arts events.

The Chief Executive Mr Shane Tiernan also welcomed the completion of the new Arts Plan and referenced the vibrant local arts sector with facilities such as King House and An Rioga in Boyle and outdoor amenities in Castlerea and Roscommon.

The Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Keogh also welcomed the new Plan and recognised that a strong and vibrant arts sector in the county is an important vehicle to promote the county and the sector could be a driver in attracting further people to visit the county.

The importance of the county’s Arts Centre was also recognised.

The roll-out of the Plan over the next six years will be eagerly anticipated by the Members.

On the PROPOSAL of Cllr. Leyden

SECONDED by Cllr. Fitzmaurice

It was AGREED to adopt the County Roscommon Arts Plan 2023-2028