Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

I am aware of the FACTOR initiative in Canada which has been very successful. It started out very small with approximately $200,000. Now approximately €14 million is provided. It helps songwriters and musicians and puts money into education which is very important. We should look seriously at that programme. I have already asked my officials to consider it to see if it can be replicated here in any way. It has certainly been successful in Canada. Coincidentally, there are a number of Irish artists who perform in America who are being funded by the Canadian Government. They perform at Irish festivals, such as in Milwaukee. There are Irish artists performing in such venues who may not get the same support from here, but who are finding it difficult to compete with them. That in itself is an example of how effective it has been.

Irish music is thriving at the moment. For example, last year, about half a million Americans saw Irish traditional music performances across America through Culture Ireland's support. I was in New York recently at a major event to promote Irish artists. Some of our top musicians were there, such as Martin Hayes and Frankie Gavin, who were attracting huge attention. Their showcases were full to capacity, whereas showcases from other countries might have attracted only two or three people. Irish music, therefore, is going through a very good spell internationally at the moment. I agree with Deputy McLellan that we should avail of this opportunity and promote it as much as we can in whatever form.

I take the Deputy's point about the French policy on airplay. There is a great man there, Danny McCarthy, who is promoting this and he has obviously been in contact with Deputy McLellan. I think that if we had a similar quota here it would help. In France, broadcasters are compelled to play local and national music as much as possible, through a special quota. We should seriously examine that here, but I suppose it is the responsibility of the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Rabbitte. It should certainly be considered seriously in conjunction with our national broadcaster.

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