Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)

I thank the Minister for his reply. As he is aware, the music industry here plays an essential part in the Irish way of life socially, culturally and economically. It is very important that it is not only recognised but supported, invested in and enhanced. There are some very good examples internationally of how this might be done but one of particular note is the FACTOR scheme in Canada. FACTOR, which stands for the Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing assistance towards the growth and development of the Canadian independent recording industry. Support is provided to Canadian recording artists, songwriters, managers, labels and distributors through various programmes which all aid in the development of the industry. The scheme supports many facets of the infrastructure which must be in place in order for the artists and Canadian labels to progress into the international arena.

Would the Minister agree a similar scheme would be welcome in Ireland? I have proposed that the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Environment, Transport, Culture and the Gaeltacht undertake a specific job of work to look at ways in which we, as legislators, might help establish an environment in which Irish music could grow and flourish. Would the Minister be supportive of such an approach? Does he believe there is scope to look at, for example, the criteria by which Irish music is defined as "Irish music" for the purposes of radio play? This is something which has been done in France to good effect. Will the Minister commit to look at international examples for best practice in regard to the promotion and protection of indigenous music?

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