Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I welcome all the contributors and apologise for stepping out during a couple of the contributions. There are just a few things I wish to raise, the first of which pertains to the Arts Council. I am familiar with the great work that is done in Galway and the really important funding for the arts festivals in Galway and Clifden and the knock-on effects that has. While I am sure Ms Orlaith McBride will say there never is enough money and would never refuse any amount, how many new demands are made that the Arts Council cannot fund to the level it would wish? I presume the number has not fallen during the recession because obviously the creative industry goes on regardless. I apologise to Mr. Cathal Gaffney for missing his presentation but on looking through the briefing, I note he mentioned the Broadcasting Act and so on. As for the 3% figure, presumably he will argue that were that budget to be increased, this would have a huge potential for exports to other countries. What sort of potential growth does he envisage in that area and, for example, what sort of increase in that budget would he like to see? While I am aware of the work being done in Ballyfermot College of Further Education, I also seek comments from whomsoever wishes to respond in respect of universities. Are the witnesses satisfied the universities are framing courses that are geared towards the sectors sought by the witnesses? Do the witnesses think there is better potential for creating structures in line with industry demands?