Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. He is on the right track. Unfortunately, two groups in my constituency are expecting assistance in the areas to which I referred. These groups promote the arts by putting on shows, plays and musicals and they often have to congregate for practice in unsuitable accommodation. The work being done so far by the Minister is fine, but he needs to direct where the money should go, with particular reference to the need to encourage upcoming groups in the areas of new and expanding population.

The Minister is correct on the educational aspect of the arts. Unfortunately, we are not really responding to the accommodation needs of education. However, the arts and education are complementary and it would be very beneficial to the communities concerned if he pursued the line I outlined.

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