A proposal has been put forth to revise the Arts Act to officially acknowledge comedy as an art form within the arts sector, consequently allowing comedians to tap into the funding provided by the Arts Council. Aengus Ó Snodaigh, spokeperson for arts from Sinn Féin, explained that merely a single word, “comedy”, needs to be integrated into the Arts Act. He emphasised that this slight adjustment would tackle the issue of comedy being overlooked as an art form.
Ó Snodaigh voiced that the Arts (Recognition of Comedy) (Amendment) Bill 2024 should not even be a requirement. He mentioned that the Arts Council could swiftly address this matter by opting to widen its definition and act decisively to stop comedians from being excluded from funding possibilities and resources that are currently accessible for various other artists.
Ó Snodaigh criticised the current legislation which only permits comedians to be acknowledged as artists under the theatre category or as an ambiguous art form not specifically delineated in the law provisions. He underscored that the Department of Arts and Culture has conceded to the shortfall in their policies.
Minister for Arts Catherine Martin, he stated, could immediately respond by instructing the Arts Council to broaden their interpretation in order to encompass comedy, which falls under her jurisdiction according to section 5 of the Arts Act, 2003. If such steps are not taken, the responsibility falls on the TDs as law-makers to adjust the law and eliminate any uncertainty or exclusions concerning comedy as an art form or the status of comedians as artists.
The representative also stressed the unacknowledged importance of comedy stating that it is a crucial source of enjoyment and relief in despairing times. In fact, a petition has been signed by 1,300 individuals, backing the recognition and funding of stand-up, improv and sketch comedy by the Arts Council. He highlighted that this recognition for comedy and comedians is already in place in other countries, giving the examples of Scotland and New Zealand.
Across the nation, you’ll find an array of outstanding festivals, not only in Dublin but in Kilkenny, Galway and beyond. Venues are constantly evolving, shuttering and reopening all over. They serve as a launchpad. Also, we always delight in our television, radio and movie comedy.
Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl applauded Mr Ó Snodaigh for proposing a wholly optimistic and straightforward piece of legislation. His sentiments were accurate; during the darkest moments in our lives, our jesters possess the knack to brighten our moods. That’s just what we require.