Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We all have heard and have been told stories over the years of some of our most famous artists, creative thinkers, painters, actors, etc. dying in abject poverty and destitution. It is not an image of which Ireland should be proud. I seek that the Department would look at ways to ensure that there is some type of safety net to capture such artists when in ill health or infirm because of old age to help them through their ill health in order that they are not left destitute and in poverty. The Department should also look at ways to ensure that there is a mechanism to capture and recognise their lifelong contribution for pension and other purposes to ensure that they are appreciated, not only through their art but also in their lifetime.

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