We begin this month in very different circumstances to last month; in a few weeks, the Covid-19 pandemic has changed so much for our society, and of course for the arts.

Artists and arts organisations are suffering particular hardship in this crisis, with many incomes slashed or completely halted.The Arts Council has responded quickly to the impact of COVID-19 on the arts sector with all staff working remotely since the middle of March. We have fast-tracked payment of funding, undertaken remote assessment of applications, engaged in detailed cross art-form relationship management and disseminated relevant Information to support the arts sector, particularly via our Covid-19 page which we update regularly. We are also in daily contact with the Department of Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht.

To give us a deeper understanding of the impact of the crisis, and help us work with the Department to best manage our response, we are currently carrying out a number of surveys. Funded organisations and our local authority partners have already participated. Individual artists can take part here.

We are also launching a €1 million scheme to enable artists to make new, original, digital work during the Covid-19 crisis – and we are creating a new digital platform so that people across the country can experience that work in their own homes. Details are available here.

May you stay safe and healthy at this difficult time,

Best wishes,



Martin O’Sullivan

Acting Director