ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the creation of the new department and the factors influencing its introduction. It considers the appointment of the Minister and describes the positive and negative aspects of this particular development. The chapter looks at the arts community's reaction to the changes made. It provides an overview of The Arts Plan, assessing its principal strengths and weaknesses. January 1993 saw the introduction of the Department of Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht and the creation of a new Cabinet post to coordinate its activities. Developments in Britain inevitably influenced the Irish government's decision to introduce the changes as the appearance of the department followed so closely the establishment of the Department of National Heritage. In comparison to Britain, the approach taken by the Irish government and the objectives pursued appear more direct, more transparent and to be more in the interests of the arts.
