Mr. Patrick Quinn:

I thank the Chairman and the committee for the opportunity to address them. I would like to focus on the cultural aspect of the proposal. One of the most vital areas where gaps can be bridged and broken paths mended is recognising and reflecting all cultural differences and allowing the arts to perform a strong healing role in this process.

Culture plays a significant role in the moulding of who we are as individuals and, to a large extent, our world and local view. Probably more urgent than ever before is John Hume's call for people to unite. The words "diversity and inclusion" are often explained by the same definition. Still, there are different steps to achieving a diverse and inclusive community. Cultural diversity refers to the make-up of people of varying ethnicities, religions and cultures. Cultural inclusivity, however, means to ensure people are seen, heard and valued, and this is what we need to do, with a good helping of respect.

One of the most fundamental tenets of inclusivity in the community should be genuine openness and equality. While there is a risk of minority groups being marginalised, it is through transparent communication that we can bridge these gaps. Respecting each other's cultural differences means being conscious of unique social behaviours and norms. It is about being aware of the important customs and beliefs of members of one's community who are of cultures different from one's own, and recognising that culture. It is more about ethnicity and understanding the rich histories that have defined the different ways of life for the people.

Art and the arts are a way to work this into the very fabric of what we are discussing. There is nothing new about this. It has been implemented across the island. However, it can be honed and expanded upon until it starts to make a difference to the collective, rather than just to isolated pockets. While cultural tolerance is the first step to inclusivity, having acceptance would be bringing things to a deeper level. Embracing different beliefs and customs may mean educating oneself on the cultural characteristics, history, values, systems and traditions of another ethnic or cultural group. This, done gently, can have an astounding result.

Art and culture can build community. Art has the beauty and the property of binding. Culture generates social capital and strengthens the character of communities. Art brings people together physically at galleries, museums and performance spaces, as well as culturally through its capacity to tell a community shared story, inspire reflection and, crucially, form connections that transcend differences. The communities in question require something to bring them together as one unified society. The arts have the ability to help people identify with one another and begin to understand our differences and accept them truly.

It is possible to introduce more art into these social environments, which could start to shift the feeling of separation into sentiments of acceptance. I think it can. Art can be beneficial in many different ways. A study done by neurologists in Germany proved that creating art can actually improve the functional connectivity inside the brain and increase psychological resilience. Both being involved in and observing the arts can create healthier and happier beings and this can be helpful for everyone involved as a happier person is more likely to be more friendly and inclusive. Most people have been personally moved by a piece of art, whether it was a song, a poem or a drawing. This is typically combined with a mental experience to which we feel deeply connected. This does not have to be experienced as a single or solitary event. Luckily, art is one of the few things that can be truly shared and valued as a group. This can be done with people from all walks of life coming together to create one amalgam of all their ideas, creativity and intuition.

To create a strong connection between humans, we have many different options. We can paint murals in towns, as has been done, or start music programmes, art projects and more. The more art a community has, the higher the cultural identity and diversity it will have. It can help to reduce crime rates and increase and build social networks. There are limitless benefits to the addition of the arts in any community.

Anyone can create art and no experience is necessary in order to participate. It is an outlet for anyone and everyone to participate, regardless of skill, technique or background. Everyone can take their turn in creating something. In an increasingly distant society with gaps that desperately need to be bridged, we need to value the activities that can truly bring us back together. If it is possible to unify a community with something as accessible as art, then it should be a priority to use that in any way we can. The longer it takes, the harder it will be to find common ground to reunite us. We must take advantage of the resources we have. The best way to start any of this would be with the children because if they get it right, the rest will naturally follow. I thank the committee.