Politicians do not value arts scene, says Abrahamson

The Irish political class “neither understands nor values” the arts sector here, according to Oscar-nominated director Lenny Abrahamson.

The Room director has spoken out in response to the Government’s decision to include the arts portfolio in the same department as regional development, rural affairs, and the Gaeltacht.

In a series of tweets, the director accused Taoiseach Enda Kenny of using the arts as “a photo op” while a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a world-class film and TV industry is squandered”.