In the week during which we will discuss the arts and a Labour Private Members' motion, I welcome the announcement made by the Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Michael Ring, on funding, through Fáilte Ireland's national festival and events programme, of almost €2 million for festivals throughout the country. This includes €200,000 for the Galway Arts Festival, €1 million for the St. Patrick's Day festival, €100,000 for the Wexford Festival Opera and €90,000 for the Fleadh Cheoil in Sligo, to mention but a few. These festivals are the backbone of the tourism industry. We have seen very significant growth this year. If one looks at festivals alone, they are responsible for the employment of more than 11,000 people. When one takes into account voluntarism and community spirit, it accounts for 50,000 volunteers nationally. This is very positive news for the tourism industry. I commend the Minister of State and the Government for the continuing investment in this area.