Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

It proves a point. From my experience in Ireland and beyond, wherever there are good programmes in place, they can change people's lives. I read about such a programme in London where young drop-outs were involved in a drama programme and one young girl who brought her mother along said it was the first time she ever really understood her mother. That insight alone was important.

I agree that the pursuit of the arts with young people, particularly through music, can be a very good way of getting people to refocus and find a different meaning for their lives. Studies over the years have shown that such programmes are effective. The Limerick experience, which is part of the whole regeneration programme, is very important in that regard. I have told the people of Limerick that they should look at Galway to see how arts and culture totally rejuvenated Galway. The same could be done in Limerick because the structures are there and the expertise is available through the university. There is a great opportunity and as Senator Moloney said, the project could be applied to any part of the country.