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The Minister for Arts, Heritage Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD, has today (Tuesday) confirmed that she is increasing core funding for Culture Night in 2017 by 20%. Culture Night 2017 will be held on the later date of Friday 22nd September in response to popular demand. Minister Humphreys is providing a total of €300,000 in 2017 to assist local authorities the length and breadth of Ireland to expand culture night activities.

Speaking today Minister Humphreys said:
"Culture Night is a wonderful annual occasion, which gives people the chance to visit venues and experience culture that may not normally be on offer. It reminds us all of the fantastic cultural facilities and resources we have locally and nationally.

“Not only does Culture Night encourage people to experience new things and take in the cultural venues around them; it helps create a sense of community and belonging. It has gone from strength to strength in recent years, so I am delighted to recognise the ongoing expansion and success of Culture Night by providing an additional 20% in its core funding for 2017.

“This year will also see a new annual cultural day, ‘Cruinniú na Cásca’ to be held nationwide on Easter Monday, as part of the Creative Ireland programme. It will strongly compliment the success of Culture Night and will go to the very heart of embedding culture in every county and community nationwide.”


Notes to Editor:

Additional funding was provided to Culture Night 2016 in the context of centenary events held and the increase in core funding will maintain that level of commitment to the Culture Night event for 2017.