Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I would like to avail of this opportunity to thank Senator Finucane for his kind comments this morning. I have no doubt, given the part of Ireland from which he comes, that he appreciates the importance of the traditional arts at local community level, for which I thank him. I thank the Fine Gael Party generally, particularly Deputy Deenihan, for the guidance and leadership he has given in this regard, including Members of the other political parties, all of whom have united on this issue, which is good for the arts.

The Minister put his finger on it this morning, and what he said on radio is an indictment of the Arts Council. Two main issues were aired. He said there is no coherent policy in the Arts Council for traditional arts after 50 years and adequate funding has not been provided. When reference is made to this – it is a pity Senator Norris has left – we should remember that PricewaterhouseCoopers presented the Minister with a comprehensive document. Its findings were quite clear. First, there must be a radical change where the traditional arts are concerned, second, substantial funding must be provided in the future and, third, an appropriate structure must be put in place. PricewaterhouseCoopers gave two options – a separate council or the Arts Council appropriately restructured. The rank and file of people throughout this country want to see this happening.