The Per Cent for Art Scheme (PCAS) was launched in 1986 by Ireland 's Department of the Environment. Since its inception, PCAS has provided an estimated 5 million plus pounds for more than 300 public art projects nationwide. A growing number of local authorities are using the PCAS which is applicable to all construction projects financed or recouped by the Department. In addition, available funding for such public art projects has increased significantly in recent years. However, public debate on this issue has been far more limited than the actual public artwork itself, and a review of the whole scheme's functioning is now overdue.

The Per Cent for Art Scheme (PCAS) was launched in 1986 by Ireland 's Department of the Environment. Since its inception, PCAS has provided an estimated 5 million plus pounds for more than 300 public art projects nationwide.