Ireland’s talent shines – but Government must do more
- Praise must be matched with investment
Labour spokesperson on Arts, Culture, Media and Sport Rob O’Donoghue TD has praised the extraordinary achievements in Ireland’s arts, culture, and sports sectors over the past two weeks but warned that these successes must not distract from the urgent need for greater investment.
Deputy O’Donoghue said:
“Last week, our athletes delivered record-breaking performances at the European Indoor Championships, alongside numerous other fantastic achievements in a range of sports. These are moments to celebrate but they also raise the question: what could we achieve with proper investment?
“We need to invest in grassroots sports so participation is accessible to all. We need top-quality facilities nationwide so young athletes aren’t forced into long commutes or subpar training. And we need more grants to support those who want to go pro—because it’s not enough for the Government to praise medal winners; they must help them get there in the first place.
“St. Patrick’s Festival saw Irish music, language, and culture take centre stage at home and abroad and showed the incredible talent and reach of Irish creativity. I attended the fantastic festivities in my own area. Arts, culture, and music are at the heart of Ireland’s identity but the sectors need structural reforms to support the people who make the industry what it is.
“Government must match praise with investment. The Minister must implement Basic Income for the Arts scheme permanently. They must also implement the Safe to Create Amplify report recommendations, deliver a National Music Strategy, and publish a National Cultural Policy. These aren’t just wish-list items—they are necessary changes to support those who make Ireland’s creative sector what it is.
“Seachtain na Gaeilge has also been a brilliant showcase of our language and culture, spurred on by a new wave of Irish-language musicians, influencers, and films. But enthusiasm must be matched with action. Government cannot use the success of grassroots initiatives and these celebrations to ignore the long-overdue reforms needed in our education system to ensure the language thrives year-round.
“Recent weeks have showcased Ireland’s talent at its best. But to truly support our artists, athletes, and cultural workers, we need more than praise—we need action.”