Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I congratulate the Minister on his appointment and wish him well. I welcome his statement on the 21% VAT rate. Progress in this area is essential to deal with the issue of developing the arts. The Minister must prioritise spending and support for the arts in the next five years, given that artists make a major contribution to the country and the development of communities.

As we are dealing with the issue of sports, will the Minister join me in expressing our deepest sympathy to the family of the late Derek Dougan who played for Wolves and Northern Ireland and made a massive contribution to sport in this country, particularly——

See this speech in context