Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
486. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her plans to support the mental health of men and women in the live music industry, particularly those at risk of drug and alcohol misuse during this period (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32290/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy may be aware that I launched a number of new music and performance schemes, to aid employment in the creative industries. The Music Stimulus Package involves three funding schemes designed to help sustain the popular commercial music sector across all music genres, including rock, pop, hip hop, indie, jazz, country and traditional folk. Under this package, a fund of €1.7 million has been put in place to stimulate areas of work which artists would usually fund with income from own sources, including live event fees. These schemes are targeted at professional musicians and their teams and will support song writing camps, recording and album releases. The aim is to ensure that Irish musicians, engineers, PR, media, agents, labels and publishers can continue to develop and ensure their work in the context of COVID-19 restrictions. The music stimulus package schemes are being managed on behalf of the Department by First Music Contact and will be subject to peer panel assessment.
Under the live performance supports pilot scheme, a further allocation of €5 million is being made available, which aims to assist commercial venues, producers, promoters of live performances and provide employment to workers in creative industries. Allocations under this scheme were announced this week.
The Deputy may be also aware that I appointed the Arts and Culture Recovery Task Force, which is being chaired by Clare Duignan. The membership of that task force includes representatives from the music industry. Taken as a starting point, the research and evidence of the devastating impact of the pandemic on the sector compiled by the Department, the Arts Council and other stakeholders, the task force's report will set out recommendations on how best the arts and culture sector can adapt and recover from the unprecedented damage arising from the pandemic.
