Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Minister of State, Deputy Martin Mansergh, and the Minister, Deputy Martin Cullen, will ensure the State properly promotes, acknowledges and represents the cultural life of the nation and we do all we can to assist creative flair in all the arts. The Minister of State, who has a particular interest and expertise in this area, will do this very well. Joining up arts and the Minister of State's responsibility in respect of the heritage function of the Office of Public Works is entirely logical and complementary and fits his talents admirably.

I join Deputy Burton in congratulating the Ministers of State and acknowledge the work of the outgoing Ministers of State. There are always far more competent, able candidates than positions available.

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