Fiach MacConghail (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I endorse what my colleague, Senator van Turnhout, said about Jimmy Walsh. Again, I am a new Senator but I acknowledge his journalistic ability, particularly his ability to put in one sentence what it takes Senators 50 sentences to say. He has created an art form in itself.

Today is World Theatre Day, a day that Ireland can be proud to support. It was established in 1961. I ask the Leader to support my call to all Members to salute the many actors, playwrights, designers and technicians throughout Ireland who have contributed to Ireland's reputation through their craft and vocation of making and presenting theatre across Ireland and the world. Theatre is more than 2,000 years old, yet it continues to be supported by audiences and communities across the nation. It is a tough time for our actors and writers as they try to make a living, like other citizens, and to survive and contribute to society through their important medium. I ask all Members today to go and see a professional production by any Irish theatre company over the next few weeks to support our theatre artists.

I have just come from a briefing given by Dr. Abdelfattah Abusrour, which was arranged by Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan. He is president of the Palestinian Theatre League and founder of Al Rowwad, a theatre company in Palestine. He works in his native land of Palestine, which is occupied by Israel, and has no designated official nationality. He works with young people and theatre and calls it a beautiful resistance. It shows how theatre and arts can continue to be important in telling stories and bearing witness across the world.

I remind Senators that our motion this afternoon is about philanthropy and fund-raising. It is an important motion and I hope all Senators will contribute to the debate. There is a major conference today in Dublin on fund-raising, with over 300 people in attendance. I note that the Cabinet has accepted a proposal from the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Phil Hogan, that new rules to encourage philanthropy should be considered. Can the Leader elaborate on this before we debate the motion this afternoon?