Richard Boyd Barrett- Art defines us as human beings, we need a 'new deal' for artists

AAA/PBP have tabled an amendment to the Fianna Fail Arts Motion. We have asked for an increase in funding and for 5,000 public arts jobs be created in a 'new deal' for artists.
The Fine Gael/Labour and Fianna Fail governments slashed arts funding and yet they pose in photographs at art events and make nice speeches.
The arts requires proper funding not just pious words. Everyone in this state should be give access to the arts as a right.
Art defines us as human beings.