Fintan Warfield (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the delegates for their contributions which have been great. A couple of my friends recently attended a festival on Inis Oírr. Is it apparent to Ms Moran or Ms O'Neill that conversations are taking place locally, nationally and internationally between agencies and educational institutions on the arts on the islands? Have they connected with arts initiatives on other islands such as the festival on Inis Oírr? What is their view of the arts on the islands?

My boyfrend raved about the NCAD degree show and I heard great things about it elsewhere. I thank Professor Glennie and Professor Jordan for the facilitation of the powerful performance of "Not At Home on St. James's Street". The NCAD is located in one of my favourite parts of the city. I travel that way on the bus to Inchicore. It is a changing area and the NCAD's sense of place is obviously strong. What are the delegates' views on the development of the area? There seems to be much gentrification.

As regards the NCAD's outreach programme, Dominic's Community Centre in Tallaght was part of the programme while I was mayor of South Dublin County Council. What can Professor Glennie tell me about the current position in terms of the arts in prisons? I know that the NCAD is no longer involved, but has the space been left vacant or has the role been filled?

On the Bealtaine Festival, creativity begins in communities, at home and at school and such festivals provide a great platform for emerging artists. One of my first gigs was at the Harold's Cross community festival. Is Ms Byrne of the opinion that people are a loyal audience? She mentioned that she kept in touch with people, formed a network and built audiences.

Ms Johnston of Arts and Disability Ireland may have wished to make a contribution during the opening statements. She may wish to use her time in response to me to make her points.

I thank the representatives of McAuley Place for their attendance. We have heard that care homes can be a miserable environment. I have carried out some research into the subject. The first openly LGBT generation of older people may be considering entering nursing homes. Some may have the fear of God in going back into an institution. I am sure there are many creative people in McAuley House which is a great example of looking forward to that stage of life. On intergenerational interaction, I attend a music session every week with my 70 year old neighbour and it is one of my favourite parts of the week.

I thank all of the delegates. I hope I have not asked too many questions.