Having watched the footage of the National Campaign for the Arts at The Project on Monday, it is clear that artists feel marginalized; that they are not being treated like other laborers in this country.

From people I’ve spoken to in the theatre world so far, many feel that their careers are not regarded as highly as other careers such as lawyers, doctors, educators, etc. Yet everyone, including politicians, agree that The Arts (which encompasses writing, theatre, film, television, music, visual arts) are one of Ireland best assets and strongest selling points.

Surely, then, it is necessary for the next government to begin to look closely at how this amazing asset, this fantastic wealth of talent and imagination can be tapped to help with the bigger problems the country faces.