Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Regarding the basic income for artists pilot, I thank the Acting Chairman for his support for that. I share his enthusiasm for the widest possible participation in it. I also agree with his comments on TG4. I was very happy to increase its funding significantly in the past two years.

On the VAT on live performances, currently, artists and live entertainment event workers benefit from a favoured VAT regime but for shows or events where food and drink are not served, VAT is not charged. A lower VAT rate is already applied to tickets for cinemas, theatres, some musical performances, museums and galleries' exhibitions. I understand one of the issues raised by some representative industries is that musicians and performers charge 23% on the fees they charge. There is push on the sector to reduce this amount. I hear their point of view on this and I will make sure I raise it with my colleague, the Minister, Deputy Donohoe, for consideration.

Regarding short-term lettings, peer-to-peer platforms like Airbnb are an important part of the tourism accommodation mix but we need a range and choice. At the end of the day Housing for All identified short-term lettings as a housing constraint in urban areas especially. Therefore, getting the balance right is key and there will also be stakeholder engagement along with the way.