In a candid appearance before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Arts Council of Ireland acknowledged deep regret over the €6.7 million lost in a failed IT project that was ultimately abandoned in 2024. Described as a “failure” by committee members, the incident raised serious concerns about governance, oversight, and the responsibility owed to taxpayers.
Tánaiste members, including Sinn Féin’s Cathy Bennett and Fine Gael’s Grace Boland, pressed the Arts Council on its accountability, with Bennett stating bluntly that “€6.7 million in taxpayers’ money was utterly wasted.” The Council confirmed it is now pursuing legal action against multiple contractors in hopes of recovering at least €3 million. To date, €60,000 has been spent on legal fees.
Director Maureen Kennelly cited outdated systems, contractor underperformance, and Covid-19 disruptions as key factors in the collapse. Despite multiple attempts to fix the project—including expert consultations and increased budgets—the system was halted in 2024 following advice from the Government CIO. Kennelly admitted the Council was misled into thinking “just one more push” would solve the problems.
The PAC also reviewed the Department of Arts’ role, with Secretary General Fergal Ó Coigligh admitting the Department “failed” in oversight and should have intervened earlier. As a result, an Expert Advisory Committee led by Prof. Niamh Brennan is now reviewing governance structures. Meanwhile, attention also turned to the National Gallery’s €125,000 x-ray scanner, which remains unused due to housing complications. A €225,000 lead-lined cabinet is now under construction to make the machine operational by year-end—funded internally by the Gallery.
What emerged from the session was not just a post-mortem on failures, but a clear commitment to transformation. With oversight reviews underway and legal accountability being pursued, the Arts Council and the Department of Arts are seeking to rebuild public trust and safeguard future investments in Ireland’s cultural infrastructure.