Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In fairness to the Minister, Deputy Martin, she has been a very strong advocate of fostering that..

We have an innovative scheme to provide a basic income for artists. We have got a huge step change in funding for the Arts Council since the Government came into office. That has been continued and maintained in budget 2023. We have got supports for the night-time economy and cross-Government co-ordination to build more inclusive and diverse spaces for that economy. There has been an extra €2 million for Culture Ireland as well as Creative Ireland, which has seen continued support.

As stated, I acknowledge the importance of the festival the Deputy referred to in his area, but, under the Arts Act, an arm's length principle is maintained. I hope there can be engagement between the applicant and the Arts Council for further consideration on it but it is not something there can be direct intervention on. If there was there would be huge criticism. Arts Council decision-making is a fundamental principle we have had for over 20 years. It is important we maintain that so artists are free to express whatever view they have within the context of Government funding.

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