Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

With respect, the dialogue between the Abbey Theatre and theatre practitioners will continue until the end of April and the issues will need to be worked out between them. As I stated, I acknowledge the necessity for the national theatre to have a degree of artistic freedom in its programming, as all theatres should, but I also recognise the necessity for a strong working relationship with theatre practitioners. This is vital for the continued success of theatre in this country. I am very supportive of the collective endeavours of theatre practitioners and the Abbey Theatre to resolve the matters raised. I welcome the commitment they have given to participate in dialogue and engagement. I look forward to there being a mutually satisfactory outcome.

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