Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I agree with the Deputy regarding the significance of the contribution made by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann's. In light of current economic circumstances, all of the budget lines are being examined. This is not being done in a negative way but rather to ensure we are obtaining the best value for money in the context of how the resources available to the State are used by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and the other bodies to which we provide funding.

I am aware that there are issues of concern among some of the branches, members, etc., of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. However, I do not want to comment on these issues, particularly as they are internal to the running of the organisation. My responsibility is to ensure the money provided is used properly, especially in the context of properties being made available for the holding of functions in respect of which that money was given in the first instance. I understand that, to date, there has been no problem in this regard. In the overall sense, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann would not necessarily have been excluded from any review that is taking place with regard to the various budget lines.

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