This is a nicely produced document, with very little substance and which neglects the issues of import. In the 12 chapters, there is curiously no reference to the place or role of culture, which I see as a serious deficiency. The deletion of culture from the remit of the Department was an act of disempowerment because the cultural life of a people should be taken as seriously as the environmental or industrial life.

The current definition of art is unsatisfactory. How, in this document, could you not have a discussion on the impact of interactive technology on culture and art?

I think the "arms length" approach to the Arts Council is absolutely crucial. To totally absorb the Council under the ambit of the Department would send all the wrong signals. The Council's role as administrator must be kept separate from government. Policy is a legitimate matter for public debate, administration is not.

I would like to see the issue of the social security of artists addressed. I think that if an artist had given a certain number of performances in a theatre or wherever, they should be entitled to a certain level of guaranteed income. Where in the document is there any reference to access to the arts for the disabled? I would like to see what is being considered for the visually, hearing or mobility impaired.

Also there is not one jot in it about having to go to the Department of Finance to approve everything. I found them a complete obstacle during my time in the Department.