Many Local Authorities in the Republic of Ireland and District Councils in the North of Ireland employ arts officers. These officers are responsible for the support and development of the arts as well as facilitating a policy of access for all. They are a useful first point of contact when seeking advice and support for an arts and disability project. Local Arts offices can sometimes provide financial support for projects.
Arts offices for Local Authorities and Udaras na Gaeltachta regions in the South can be accessed at www.artscouncil.ie/index.html
A list of District Council Arts Officers in Northern Ireland can be obtained from the Forum of Local Government and the Arts (NI) www.nilga.org/flga.asp
Governmental Support
In the Republic
The Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Tourism has two specific funding streams for the arts. These are the ACCESS fund which gives funds for capital projects[buildings] and its CULTURE IRELAND fund which supports the promotion of Irish culture abroad. Details of both schemes can be found at
www.arts-sport-tourism.gov.ie.
The Department of Community Rural and Gealtacht Affairs offers a range of once off grants under the theme of ‘community development’. It also distributes funds from the DORMANT ACCOUNTS FUND. Information can be found at
www.pobail.ie .
National Lottery Proceeds from the lottery in the Republic are distributed via a wide range of departments. There is no unified application process. Most departments advertise in the local and national press during the year.
In Northern Ireland
www.volcomgrantsni.gov.uk gives information on all grants available to the community/voluntary sector.
The Big Lottery Fund also disburses funds from the UK National Lottery
arts and disability directory and
