Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister, the Minister of State and their officials for attending. For some of the officials, it sounds like a weekly appearance at this stage. I am appreciative of their work. They will find cross-party support for the budgetary asks. When it comes to the arts and sports, it is not just that they are nice things to have; they are critical drivers for the economy, societal well-being and all of our communities. I echo the comments with regard to TG4 and any support that can be provided. TG4's role in the area of co-production, for example, its work on "An Cailín Ciúin", has been significant. It operates off a shoestring budget. I am conscious we are moving into budget periods, but if specific support were given to TG4, it would be welcome.

The Minister referenced section 481, as did Deputy Gibney in the context of the concept of regional uplifts. There was a regional uplift before. Where are we with that from the Department's perspective? The previous regional uplift was expanded because of Covid-19. Like the Minister, I would be keen to see if we can progress it.