Mr. Brendan McGowan:

The ADCI carried out a survey of members in 2018 which highlighted strengths and weaknesses. We have spoken about many of our strengths. On weaknesses, most of our members came back with the problems regarding a lack of artistic and Government recognition and a lack of funding. I hope we are on the road to seeing this being resolved, and that is required.

This generation has been handed a wonderful asset that was built up over previous generations. It is our duty to hand this to the next generation in as good a shape as it is in now, if not better. We need to involve our youth and schools and promote this on the ground. The amateur drama movement has been a breeding ground and the bedrock of professional theatre for years. We have hundreds of examples, one of which is the Druid Theatre Company. Garry Hynes and Marie Mullen would say that they started their careers in drama festivals. There are hundreds more examples.