18 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will clarify and develop his proposals for additional business sponsorship of the arts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10949/08]

32 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the strategic policy development links that exist between his Department and statutory and informal bodies in the area of the arts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10839/08]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 32 together.

Government Policy on the Arts is set out in the Programme for Government and elaborated further in my Department's Statement of Strategy and my recently published Arts and Culture Plan, 2008. Since taking office I have met with and received submissions from a wide range of arts and culture organisations. This was done in the context of understanding the arts and culture sectors and to inform and enhance the policy framework. I am currently considering the relationships and opportunities of business, philanthropy and the Arts, with a view to producing a policy paper on the issue later this year.