750. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport for an update on progress made to date and the plans for the future for the expansion of the night-time economy action plan for Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12607/26]

Patrick O'Donovan, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport: The Night-Time Economy is an important component in the development of towns and cities, playing a crucial role in economic growth, cultural vibrancy, social vitality, and urban regeneration. The Night-Time Economy pilots are a priority project for the department to support the development of the Night-Time Economy in Ireland. The Night-Time Advisor in Dublin has been working closely with key stakeholders and partners in the city, creating a sense of common purpose and cohesion among stakeholders and groups. The pilot in Dublin city has already yielded a range of positive outcomes, particularly in the area of safety at night and the development of a culturally vibrant city.

In 2025, my department provided just over €209,000 in funding towards salary costs and the development and roll out of the Dublin City Night-Time Economy action plan which included support for Culture Night Late, Brigit Late, St Patrick’s Festival After Dark and a safety campaign which includes free online vulnerability and safeguard training for venues and businesses at night. In addition, last year Dublin City Council launched the ‘Nee-Naw’ van, which was developed by the Night-Time Advisor and is funded by the Department of Justice.

Early this year, the Night-Time Advisor in Dublin with funding support from my department, launched the ‘Dublin Nights Mapped’ which showcases all the things to do after 6pm in the city that isn’t focused on alcohol. This supports the Night-Time Economy Taskforce objective to develop and offer an alternative range of activities that are inclusive, diverse and reflective of today’s trends and society.

This year, I have committed funding to support the salary and further roll out of the action plan for Dublin city. However, the pilot initiative is currently under review. Last year, we commissioned Communiqué International to conduct an independent review of the 9 Night-Time Economy pilots, to look critically at the structures involved in supporting the Advisors, the visibility and impact of each in their respective areas, the future roll-out of the pilots and whether a further roll-out is warranted and what needs to be put in place to make this model effective.

I have now examined the findings in the Report from the review, and I have met with my officials in relation to the recommendations outlined in the Report. Discussions have now commenced between my department and local government in relation to the outcomes of the review. At this point, it would not be appropriate to comment on the possible future arrangements whilst those discussions are ongoing.

I intend to publish the Review in the coming weeks, and I look forward to the outcome of those discussions with our local government colleagues on the future roll out of the pilots.