Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the funding allocated to Sligo and the local authorities. I also welcome the funding given to the Model and to the Hawk's Well Theatre over recent years. The Minister mentioned the events taking place. I compliment everybody associated with Sligo County Council on their effort and commitment in recent years. It is encouraging that the numbers have been increasing and we expect this trend to continue on Friday night. The Minister has given considerable funding to the creative arts. The funding of €4,500 for Friday is badly needed by the local authority because matching funds can be difficult at times. It is vital that people come out on Friday night, not just in Sligo but throughout the country. It is encouraging to see the number of people coming out. I ask that the Department consider funding for all these events again in the future.

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