Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I support the views expressed by Senator Norris regarding the Feis Ceoil. He correctly pointed out that it is one of the oldest and perhaps most impressive cultural institutions on the island at present. The Arts Council appeared before the Oireachtas Committee on Arts, Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in recent weeks and the council responded quite generously to the committee's debate. There was a general consensus that the Arts Council needs to focus on community-based events that are largely reliant on volunteerism. Events such as the Dublin Feis Ceoil provide a platform for young artists. Indeed, many of the household names in the arts today will at some stage have had a connection with the Feis Ceoil. The Arts Council has received almost €80 million from the Government and it should get involved with this. It would be very sad to lose that event.

I also agree with the Senator's views on the death of the two eagles. I was particularly disappointed when I saw the photograph in the newspaper today. I applaud Senator Coghlan for raising this issue. I recall there was quite a celebration when the chicks were put into the wild. As a nation, we have always had respect for our wildlife, which is a huge tourist attraction. I will be surprised if this bad news does not spread outside Ireland and is not picked up in other countries. It will not impact positively. If anyone deliberately did this, they are helping no one and are certainly not helping Ireland.