Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The pilot social welfare initiative has been a good idea, but it is confined to writers and visual artists, which means that it excludes many people. In a place like Dublin, a large number of artists occupy studios that are now closing because of high rents. While the economy is recovering, it is becoming more difficult for artists to survive. This specific issue should be examined. Consider Block T in Smithfield, the Joinery in Stoneybatter, the Exchange in Temple Bar and the Mabos studio on Hanover Quay, which is now occupied by Airbnb, a business that is one of the reasons rents have increased in the city centre. Many people from across the arts are being pushed out of these spaces, which creates difficulties.

Will the Minister consider this matter? Can we help to find spaces for these people, many of whom are being evicted because of rising rents?

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