Cork's European capital of culture celebrations received €7 million worth of corporate sponsorship this year, a record for cultural activity in Ireland.

More than 230 companies sponsored the celebrations, known as Cork 2005, the event organisers said yesterday.

The corporate sponsors, including RTÉ, Heineken Ireland, and AIB, accounted for one-third of Cork 2005's operating budget, three times higher than the average private sponsorship for a European Capital of Culture.

"Cork 2005 has been a great catalyst for the city," said Deirdre Clune, the Lord Mayor of Cork. "In addition to the cultural activities, the city has enjoyed many economic benefits of the Capital of Culture designation, many of which have been driven by the support of local businesses in Cork."

The number of passengers travelling through Cork Airport will likely rise 20 per cent this year to 2.7 million as the cultural events drew more visitors to the city, according to Cork 2005's organisers.

The events were also funded by € 7.85 million from the Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism, and by €5.65 million received from Cork City Council.