Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 December 2020
60. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the process through which a company (details supplied) was selected to be the public relations company assigned to work with successful applicants of the music industry stimulus package; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40630/20]
View answerThe digital music distribution company named is based in Dublin. I understand that it is the only company of its kind in Ireland available to the independent music sector which delivers songs to radio, press and industry from one portal.
When releasing music, it is important that artists are able to distribute as widely as possible. Distribution has a significant cost but is recognised as a vital cog in stimulating activity in the sector. Accordingly, I understand that First Music Contact, who is managing the Music Industry Stimulus Package on behalf of the Department, negotiated a favourable reduced rate with the company on behalf of all successful applicants to ensure wide distribution of the supported album releases.
