Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their presentations and ongoing contribution to the richness of our communities. Colleagues always talk about their local connections. I am always tempted, coming from Gorey, County Wexford, to say we almost do not need to boast about our successes on the artistic scene. Mr. Croffy may know that the Association of Irish Festivals and Events, AOIFE, was among the founders of our summer festival in Gorey. It is that rich tapestry of life that makes up our communities. The Government has gone a long way towards supporting the professional arts. There have been significant increases in additional funding for the Arts Council and the basic income scheme for artists has been introduced. We see major investment in some of the national cultural institutions like the national theatre and National Concert Hall. These are all welcome moves and they work well to support artistic activity nationally. The purpose of this report is about how we can support community and voluntary arts. What is going on in urban and rural communities around the country? I will give Mr. Croffy the opportunity to make some practical recommendations about particular lines the association would like to see in the report. We will obviously be raising this with the Minister, the Arts Council and others.

I come to the point raised by AIMS, the DLI and the ADCI about the specific line of funding that should be provided to each of the organisations. How would they ask the committee to recommend that funding line should come? I will let them think about it. Should it be a direct funding line from the Arts Council or from the Department? Would they recommend the Arts Council set aside specific funding streams in this regard? I have suggested before, to some other organisations before the committee, that we develop an arts capital programme in much the same way as we have a sports capital programme. I think that may address some of the challenges for arts centres, theatres and venues.

I will make two general points on which I would like the witnesses to comment. I will allow whoever wants to, to come in on the recommendations. The first point is about the training and supports that may be available. What supports might the State be able to put in place to improve the craft of local voluntary theatre and musical groups? The witnesses will also be aware there is a plan to introduce drama, film and theatre studies at leaving certificate level, which will be welcome. I assume they are excited about that. How can the introduction of that, in our second level system, support the activity all of the organisations engage with on the ground? I appreciate that is a lot.