Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I compliment the Minister, his officials and all involved in this process. Seldom have the arts been at the centre of a debate for so long. That must be healthy. Many were involved in the debate and, therefore, their expectations might be high. I empathise with the points made by Senator Cummins. We might have to revisit the definition of professional and amateur status not within the legislation but within arts policy. The emphasis should be on excellence rather than on who is or is not involved on a full-time basis. Perhaps it might be possible for the Minister to consider designating one of the special committees for that purpose because a committee only stays in existence for a certain length of time. Given that there are three committees on offer, it might be a good process and would give the people Senator Cummins mentioned an opportunity to be proactive in that regard.

I wish the Bill and the incoming Arts Council well. As was said recently in relation to the Middle East, we should let bygones be bygones, put the debate behind us and get on with our work in a positive way, as is expected of us from all practitioners of the arts. Because of our status internationally, there is an onus on us to do our best in every way possible and be exemplary in the work we do. I thank and congratulate all involved.