Ulick Burke (Fine Gael)

They cannot have it both ways. I fully recognise the work Senator Ó Murchú has done for traditional Irish music throughout the country, including in my county, Galway. Ordinary people with a love of Irish music recognise the part he has played over the years. However, I do not consider his contribution to this debate, in taking the opportunity to pursue a vendetta against the Arts Council, appropriate.

With regard to the 12 "apostles" whom the Minister will identify in the near future as members of the Arts Council, they should be seen as representative of and embracing all who have an interest in the arts. There should not be a situation whereby a finger can be pointed, as has been done, at certain people as being elitist in any way. We must remember that people laboured and gave life commitments in furthering their interests in particular aspects of the arts, without recognition from any Minister or Government. Even when no resources were made available, they persisted in their efforts throughout the years in the relevant discipline or aspect of art.