Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome Professor Rafter and congratulate him on his role as chair designate of the Arts Council. He has a considerable background in communication, writing, politics and media. As he mentioned, he also has an interest and background in arts from his radio work. As a quasi-outsider coming in, on what areas of the arts does he believe we must concentrate further? He mentioned some of them but perhaps he could elaborate.

Should the Arts Council have a role outside its State role of acknowledging the arts and gifting financing and platforms to projects and people? Is it a little stuck where it is? Would Professor Rafter like to see changes?

He stated that being an artist was a difficult life. Many artists have appeared before us, starting with a lot of actors from the Abbey Theatre to discuss what was happening there. Many of those with backgrounds in film and the arts tell us that it is not a full-time job or something that people can take up as a career. Professor Rafter mentioned that the Arts Council might discuss that matter in future. Will he elaborate a little? He might not wish to say too much yet, as the council might not have something worked out.