Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

All I can say is that the orchestras are a matter for RTÉ and that, other than what I read in the newspapers, I am not familiar with this matter. The one orchestra I do fund is the Cross-Border Orchestra of Ireland, CBOI, which is done on a cross-Border basis, and it is a wonderful opportunity for young people to engage in an orchestra, work as part of a team, and play instruments. They do wonderful work, with which I am sure the committee is familiar. They will be starting their season shortly and they are fantastic.

Coming back to Deputy Smyth's question about the director of Creative Ireland, that position has been advertised, there have been applications for the position, and we hope to be able to appoint a new director before the end of the year, and even sooner, if possible.