Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

The Minister has sought to ensure that funding has been retained for the arts during a difficult period. I recognise the Minister's efforts to position the arts in the tourism sector and to promote the concept of cultural tourism. Senator O'Meara referred to that matter. The Minister not only recognises the importance of the arts, but also their position vis-à-vis the tourism industry in the future.

I welcome the Bill, which is the result of much consultation and debate during the past five years. All the stakeholders were involved in that process. They made their contributions and compromises were reached, as is always the case when dealing with diverse groups in any sector. Two Ministers made an input. The current Minister and his predecessor, Deputy de Valera, did tremendous work to ensure the publication of a comprehensive Bill.

I wish to rebuke Senator Ulick Burke because the Minister may not want to do so. Certain members of the art world were taken aback by the Minister's knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the arts and by his willingness to listen. Although there are diverse elements in the Department, arts has always been to the fore and the Minister has played a leading role in that regard. That was recognised by many of the practitioners in the art world who were taken by surprise. However, we in Fianna Fáil know the Minister has been interested in the arts for many years.

The Bill is important because it clarifies the relationship between the Government and the Arts Council. It puts in place a framework in relation to the broader issues of policy and strategy. It puts the Minister in the driving seat and that is welcome. There was some debate about whether the Bill would work. The new role envisaged for the Government and the Minister in the Bill and the initiatives which will be taken will ensure that it works well.