Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I wish to acknowledge the contribution that the arts sector has made during the Covid-19 pandemic. It kept many people, including myself, sane. When it comes around to Friday or Saturday night, we miss the venues and going out. Those involved have done all that for charity. They help local charities, including charities for children with cancer, and so forth and it is all free. That has to be acknowledged as well.

The pandemic payments are imperative. Many people involved in the arts in my area have contacted me. They have families and they have to feed them. They miss the venues because it is part of their aura. Basically, we have only six months and next April will come quickly. I believe, honestly speaking, that as long as Covid-19 exists, there will be trouble in the arts industry. We have to face that. These people need help.

What do the campaign representatives think of the live venue funding? Should the criteria be broadened? Should the application be simplified? Should it be opened to commercial artists?