The funding will be made available to 128 artists and arts groups across the county through the 2024 Arts Scheme, which is a County Council programme that aims to support events, activities and new initiatives that enhance public access to the arts and support cultural development.

Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Frank O’Flynn, said that the council are “delighted” to announce the funding for the various individuals and groups that will be able to avail of it.

“The arts and culture are central to our lives individually and as a society, it is important that Cork County Council plays a role in supporting such activity,” Mayor O’Flynn said.

“The wide range of proposals from arts organisations around the county is very heartening, demonstrating a desire to help our citizens connect with each other through participation and engagement in arts and cultural activity.

“This funding will be put to great use enabling festivals, artists and voluntary arts organisations deliver projects which will directly impact and revitalise social life in local communities, putting art and creativity at the heart of our lives in 2024. We particularly welcome the funding allocation for projects that promote inclusion and address barriers preventing access to the arts.”

The council said that there has been a “sharp rise” in applications for the Arts Scheme for this year, with a 42% increase in requests for funding indicating that arts and cultural activity has returned to pre-pandemic levels and that Cork artists have ambitious plans for the coming year.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Valerie O’Sullivan, said the aim of the Local Authority was to “see the arts thrive” and ensure that all citizens have the opportunity to access and enjoy the arts.

“We are delighted to support the wonderful work by so many organisations throughout the county who deliver creativity at a local level enhancing lives and place simultaneously,” the Chief Executive said.

The council said that it is one of the few local authorities that offer a specific scheme supporting arts projects that promote the use of Irish language, with two initiatives based in Youghal and the Mhuscraí Gaeltacht that will assist young people in making films through Irish being supported this year.

18 bursaries and residencies will also be awarded to individual artists this year, including two awards supporting artists developing projects to promote their work abroad, while the Arts Grant Scheme will also support voluntary groups and arts for older people and disability access.

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