Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)

I appreciate the answers the Minister has given and I appreciate that he will make an announcement. I understand he is awaiting the second report but in the first report, as the Minister acknowledged, quantitatively and qualitatively the basic income scheme for artists was viewed as a significant success. It is important for those in receipt of it that some indication is given to them as to whether after August they will be in a position to be able to continue with the basic income for artists scheme or whether the Minister plans to broaden it or restrict it. We are speaking about a couple of months and primarily for those on the scheme it is important to at least let them know what will happen.

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