asked the Minister for Finance if in view of unemployment existing in the ranks of Irish musicians and variety artists, he will, in consultation with the Minister for Industry and Commerce, introduce proposals for legislation revising the conditions under which a remission of entertainment tax is made so that it will be necessary for at least 50 per cent. of the variety bill in cine-variety shows to be allotted to musicians and artists who are Irish nationals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Entertainment Tax.
This is an employment problem which would require careful investigation and consideration in the first instance by the Minister for Industry and Commerce.
Is the Minister aware that considerable unemployment has been caused in the ranks of Irish theatrical and variety artists within the past 12 or 18 months?
I understand that some of the theatres have gone over to the practice of engaging foreign artists. That is what I say is a problem for the Minister for Industry and Commerce. As far as I am concerned, the more popular a show is, no matter who the artists be, the more money will be taken and the more I will receive.