Alan Farrell (Dublin Fingal, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response. It is important that the State and his Department promote alternative activities at night. We have a solid night-time culture in Ireland, but it mostly revolves around alcohol and pubs. There are many other things we are absolutely excellent at and it is very important that funding streams go towards the promotion of music, comedy, literature and, as the Minister of State mentioned, art and photography, among other things. We have an extraordinary story to tell in towns and villages right across Ireland. That is why the funding the Minister of State has announced and the scheme that has been implemented are so crucial.

I have to compliment the Minister of State, and the Minister, Deputy Catherine Martin, on measures such as the special exemption order changes. There are also things being implemented under the Sale of Alcohol Bill, which will have an impact on the night-time economy.

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