Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister, Deputy Martin, for prioritising this. I am also proud to be in a Fianna Fáil Government coalition because we have provided historic support for the arts over many decades. I am glad that continues in coalition with Fine Gael and the Green Party, in particular. Historic levels of funding are being provided by the Department. It recognises how united the screen industry proved to be by pulling together and working towards a common goal. The screen industry in Ireland provides a tangible economic benefit to our country through jobs, skills development, regional development and production spend on local goods and services.

There is an even more essential cultural value in supporting Irish creative talent, telling Irish stories on screen and connecting with audiences at home and around the world. In uncertain times, we turn to the artist as a guide. Artists provide us with shared experiences that remind us all of the importance of identity, community and belonging through the stories they tell. Times come and go, people come and go and the economy goes up and down but the things created - art, poems, movies and books - stay and offer all of us lessons in times of difficulty.

We will continue to engage with key stakeholders and professionals to understand the challenges in the sector. The Government is absolutely committed to the sector and aware of its importance, not only in terms of jobs and the economy but also because of the intangible benefits the arts provide to society through creativity, writing, composing, directing and producing.