Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the representatives from IMRO. I am delighted they have come before the committee because there is no doubt music is one of the most important industries we have at present. In the context of tourism, it is huge. One need only read the various surveys carried out over the years, in which people were asked what they did while they were in Ireland, to discover that the vast majority engage with music in some form, whether at a festival or a concert, in a pub or whatever. There is also the community aspect of music, which plays an important role in strengthening people’s morale and encouraging them in many other ways. The statistic of 11,500 who gain employment through music is only a small part of its monetary aspect. It does provide very important employment.

I compliment IMRO on the report. It is exceptionally well done. There has been wide consultation with all the partners involved in music. There is no doubt that the message - not just the statistics but what IMRO hopes to achieve - is very well laid out. What does IMRO see the task force, which is central to its vision for the future, doing? Does it see it as an official or semi-official task force, possibly appointed by the Government? All of that is important.

The almost 50% decrease in sales of recorded music in recent times is a huge challenge and has happened in a very short period. Does IMRO feel the task force has a role to play in that regard? The music offices are interesting as IMRO seems to be trying to give status or an official profile to the importance of the music industry. At one point the report refers to the things we take for granted, which is quite right. The witnesses might touch on that when they respond. We do take for granted what is there. If we were dealing with any other industry, whether construction or agriculture, it would be a constant topic of debate and discussion. IMRO is right to try to bring music as a career and a community and broadcasting expression centre stage. Do the witnesses think the task force is sufficient?

IMRO refers to financing and I presume that, as in all areas, it must set out its stall about where that is most needed. I agree that up-and-coming artists make a very big decision and take a huge risk when setting out. We all know of people who buy their first guitar or whistle and work away at home hoping that some day they will reach a stage where they will be accepted as important and develop a career. Can something be done in that regard within the educational system? Music forms an integral part of education but more often perceived as a cultural expression or a hobby. Very often, guidance counsellors direct young people towards the type of employment they might consider. Is there something within the educational system that might be of assistance in that context? The manner in which IMRO has laid out the results of its survey and the report is quite graphic and straightforward.

The figures are clear, but Mr. Finn is requesting the committee to consider sending a recommendation to the appropriate Departments on the issues he has raised in order that they might be considered in a proactive way rather than leaving them on the long finger.