Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their presentations. In her presentation, Ms McBride mentioned a report commissioned in 2013 that contained specific recommendations. She then said that the group has continued on an ad hocbasis. If these recommendations on the operating model, increased production of new work - both commissioned work and work by visiting companies - and a system for monitoring and evaluation were made, why then are we at this point? Why are we at a place where €300,000 has been withheld because there appear to be issues in terms of what Ms McBride has outlined with regard to the nature of the productions, presenting models being programmed and the impact on quality employment opportunities for actors and creatives? Why have we reached this place if this working group produced its recommendations and if, as Ms McBride said at the outset, the recommendations were largely addressed?

Regarding the key points emerging from the presentations, from media coverage, we aware of the fair remuneration of artists, quality employment opportunities and production runs being shorter. They are the three key points. It has been stated that one of them is, or is in the process of, being addressed. It has been agreed that all future contracts will include a condition that any artist engaged in a co-production with the Abbey will be paid the appropriate rate or higher. The previous discussion concerned the fact that artists are not being paid enough to be able to manage on a long-term basis.

How does the Abbey Theatre propose to address the three issues that have been raised, namely, fair remuneration, quality employment opportunities and the shorter production runs to which Mr. Conlon referred.

My third question, on structures and communications, has been raised by other members and relates to my first point. A meeting will be held on Friday. What structures, including in communications, are planned to ensure this problem does not arise again and issues do not escalate to the point at which 409 people raise concerns?

On funding, there have been challenges around budgets in recent years. It is important to note, however, that the budget for arts and culture has increased by 14% or €22 million since 2018 to almost €190 million. We must ensure there is accountability for that Exchequer funding and proper structures are in place.