Irish government helps fund new arts center

By Melissa Turtinen

Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin.

With a 2.3 million Euro grant (about 3.5 million dollars) from Ireland, the Irish Arts Center of New York will have a new home.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, announced that Ireland would be making this generous donation and it was confirmed by New York City Council speaker, Christine C. Quinn.

“The Irish Arts Center has become a New York City treasure and a world class cultural destination," Quinn said in a statement. "I am delighted that with this financial commitment from the Irish government the Irish Arts Center will continue to be home to first rate performances for all to enjoy and appreciate. It is a most welcome sign that Ireland is wisely investing in the arts and the Irish brand in its most important overseas market."

What’s the reason behind such an influential donation? The importance of Irish culture and the image of Ireland abroad – especially in the United States – was a common theme at last summer's Global Irish Economic Forum in Farmleigh. Martin noted that this was an important conclusion of the Strategic Review of Ireland US Relations, which was published by the Taoiseach last March.

The construction of the New York Irish Arts Center is a priority in the revised Programme for Government, according to Martin.

“The new center will project a dynamic image of Ireland and Irish America across the U.S.; it will facilitate extensive Irish-related cultural, business and community programs; will showcase quality contemporary Irish theatre and art; and will also provide an invaluable resource for the Irish emigrant community in the U.S.," Martin said in his announcement.

In addition to the grant from Ireland, the center will receive close to $8 million in capital funding.

The Irish Arts Center in New York was established in 1972 and has become one of the largest Irish cultural organizations in the U.S. In 2006, more than 35,000 people participated in the Center’s programs. The current building, located in Manhattan’s Hells Kitchen, houses the 99-seat Donaghy Theatre, a gallery and educational programs.

A start date for construction was not announced, but Minister Martin will be making further announcements in the New Year.

The Irish Arts Center is just one of many projects Ireland is hoping to contribute to in the upcoming years.