Minister Patrick O’Donovan announces over €1m in grants to Local Authorities as part of the Culture Programme for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union
- Published on: 21 April 2026
- Last updated on: 21 April 2026
The Minister of Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, T.D. today announced the allocation of €1.1m to deliver an enhanced programme of cultural activity in every local authority in the country during Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The Presidency offers a unique opportunity for Ireland in the European Union to showcase the best of Irish arts and culture, both traditional and contemporary. The Department of Culture, Communications and Sport is developing an expansive culture programme which will ensure that Irish citizens can participate in this occasion and reflect on Ireland’s role in the EU.
Today’s announcement forms a key component of the wider culture programme for Ireland’s Presidency. The programmes which will be supported under the local authority strand encompass a diverse array of festivals, family-friendly and community events, exhibitions, concerts, talks and workshops in each local authority area, with every artform represented.
Speaking today, Minister Patrick O’Donovan said:
I am delighted to announce these grants valued at €1.1 million which will deliver additional cultural programmes in every county in the country. It is vital that all of our citizens are afforded the opportunity to engage with Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. I look forward to seeing communities across Ireland participating in cultural events centred around these themes.
ENDS
Notes for Editor
- In December 2025, Minister O’Donovan invited applications from the 31 local authorities to participate in the culture programme for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Applications were open to existing festivals, libraries and cultural venues to present enhanced programmes that engaged in the themes of the Presidency.
- Applications closed on 11th February 2026 and allocations will be granted to every local authority in the State.
- Details of the wider cultural programme will be announced in June, following the official launch of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.