Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Like the witnesses, I have many friends in the world of music and entertainment and I am constantly being contacted by people wishing to voice their concerns about problems including the lack of support for the sector. I am deeply worried about all of the musicians, sound and lighting people, drivers and so on who work very hard. I have two quick questions. I compliment our guests because, as someone said, they have brought a disparate group together. I see that they faced some opposition. Some did not like having them on their turf. They have done a great job representing people in the industry. I also compliment Senator Murphy for chairing our group. We meet occasionally to try to tease out issues.

I will move on to my dhá questions. Starting with ceist a haon, can the witnesses explain what it is like for the ordinary man or woman facing the loss of his or her pub and the effects this has on him or her? With regard to uimhir a dó, why is it taking so long to get supports out to these people? Our committee takes some responsibility. We were refusing to meet these good people. They are powerful groups that are good at lobbying. I thank our guests. They have started a lobbying organisation to work for their people. They are the ordinary plain people of Ireland who love to entertain and give solace to people.