Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

I was not saying that the Exchequer would lose out but that under the mechanism by which VAT is collected one offsets the VAT one pays against that which is charged in. If no VAT is charged in on tickets there is no mechanism for reclaiming it. My point is a technical one but I accept the Deputy's broader point.

I join with Deputy Finian McGrath in expressing my admiration for the wonderful contribution made in the case he mentioned and extend our expressions of sympathy to the family of Derek Dougan.

I plan to make a fuller statement on investment in the arts and the future as I see it, hopefully soon.

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