432 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when an application for funding for an arts centre was made for Ballina, County Mayo; the amount of funding sought; the development by which the request has been made; the status of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4744/07]

I can confirm that an application was received by the closing date of November 17 2006 for an Arts Centre in Ballina. All applications under the ACCESS II scheme are currently being assessed by an independent Selection Committee. I hope to make an announcement regarding the successful applicants in March.

433 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if there is grant aid available to a person wishing to attend acting school in America; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4763/07]

My Department does not have any grant scheme which would provide funding of this type. The Arts Council are the main channel for State support to the arts. I understand that the Council has a Travel & Training award, which is open to artists wishing to participate in short informal career development initiatives including training courses.