Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It is not in the Bill but this is where artists and authors come together. There is an eclectic mix there and it is where ideas come from. When others mentioned films, I was reminded of the old film “Poitín”. I do not know whether the Minister ever saw it. Maybe I am of the vintage to have seen it. It is worth watching if you want to see divilment in Cyril Cusack's eyes. It is absolutely brilliant. It was one of the first Irish-language films and it is worth watching. It is dated at this stage but shows that, even with very little money, what the Irish could do with imagination. We have seen that, and that is why I support this legislation and look forward to ensuring that, irrespective of the legislation that comes before the House on film and the arts, we try to get the best. Since Ireland is a small island, on the edge of the world in some ways, it has to invest in its artists. Artists, along with others, set us apart. We have seen this from the awards they have got. Whether it is the technical legislation before us or the forthcoming legislation, we have to ensure we get it right. Others are getting their act together, have seen the success here and want a piece of the cake. They would probably have all of the cake if they could. If we could concentrate on Irish film, the correctness of the culture test and workers' rights, it would be useful.

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