Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for the positive initiatives to which she referred to in her reply. Has the Minister given consideration to the proposal by Deloitte to establish a music office, similar to the Irish Film Board? She referred to, IASCA, the Irish Association of Songwriters, Composers and Authors, which is doing particularly good work and how funding from the music distribution system is important.

I understand from the IASCA that, on foot of the creation of a digital transmission system, it is important to ensure a certain level of airplay is available for Irish musical work. Over the years, this issue has been a cause of significant concern. While we now listen to The Script, Hozier, The Coronas and other bands on radio, other young and emerging artists are voicing concern about the lack of airplay they receive. Has the Minister engaged with her opposite number in the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to identify what can be done to ensure a platform is given to young and emerging artists?

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