Irish Regions Office Website

June 01, 2010

Ministers back cultural role in local development

The importance of culture as both a key driver for competitive, innovative and inclusive local and regional development and as a vehicle for social cohesion was emphasised at the most recent meeting of the Education, Youth & Culture Council in May.

The Ministers set out a series of priorities which they strongly recommend should be taken into consideration by Member States and the European Commission when drawing up and implementing current and future local and regional development policies, and when implementing European Cohesion Policy. These include:
* Mainstreaming culture as a strategic and cross-cutting element for the social and economic development of cities and regions - including greater involvement of local and regional authorities in the implementation of the European Agenda for Culture, and an evidence-based approach to cultural investment at these levels;
* Stimulating a favourable local and regional level environment for a better development of cultural and creative industries, especially SMEs;
* Deepening the contribution of culture to sustainable tourism, and paying attention to the protection of the environment, cultural heritage, landscape and the quality of life;
* Raising awareness among decision-makers on local and regional policies that develop new skills and competences through culture; and
* Reinforcing cross-border, transnational and interregional cultural cooperation.

Council conclusions

Meanwhile, the EUROCITIES Network has published a report showcasing good practices policies and initiatives implemented by 16 member cities in order to foster equal opportunities access to cultural spaces and services and the participation of different social groups in the local cultural life. The report takes social, cultural, intellectual, physical and financial aspects into consideration. Dublin’s Winter Festival and 'One City One Book' initiative are profiled.

Access to Culture Report

Posted by iroronan at June 1, 2010 12:34 PM