Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I am glad to speak in support of the Minister. I listened to what he said yesterday and I was more than happy with his contribution. The continuation of funding for the arts is vital. The potential for ways to improve ourselves, to create jobs and to bring the country out of recession is clear in the tourism area. Some weeks ago, we brought the British ambassador to Cashel to see what the area had after the Queen's visit last year. The ambassador and people with him were amazed at the hidden gems in the area and what we could do in a place like Cashel. There is great potential for tourism and investment around this country. It applies to every village around Ireland. There is potential for job creation. In light of the potential for employment, funding needs to continue in the best way the Minister can provide in these circumstances.

Some counties, including South Tipperary, were slow in appointing arts officers. The benefit of such an appointment when the person is committed, supportive and helpful is great value for money for South Tipperary County Council. The council was the last local authority to make such an appointment but it was a great investment. The tourism potential of the arts, the events organised and the ideas of our young people are considerable. We may need a debate on how to put together a package on the job creation potential for the arts but there will be no argument on investing in it. I support this idea because there is positive potential in it. There will be great benefit if we support it and stick together.

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