Fintan Warfield (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am catching up on Mr. Rafter's opening statement. I was in the Seanad dealing with the Planning and Development Bill so I apologise for coming in late. I commend Ms Kennelly on taking up the role early. That was an important and welcome step at the time.

I have a question regarding yesterday's announcement by First Music Contact. The Arts Council obviously funds First Music Contact. When the Minister was here, I asked her whether there is a template for the live entertainment moneys that will be invested in the sector. There was not really a template, as I could see it. I wondered whether the money should be distributed by the Arts Council instead for popular music. Is that part of the plan for future funding?

Many have been knocking on the door for many years asking for Arts Council support. I have spoken to many who have received support for the first time this year. The council is very often criticised for how it spends money but many of the problems can be traced to the lack of money. The extra money gets to people and it is proving to be welcome and much needed by many artists across the State.