ITALIAN poet Dante Alighieri once said, “The secret of getting things done is to act”.
The sentiment behind this statement is one that Fine Gael TD for Limerick, Tom Neville (41), has taken quite literally. A trainer actor with a Masters in Music Technology, he is now appealing for Arts funding to be increased, as the economy grows.
Last October, Tom was shortlisted for an award at the Richard Harris International Film Festival in the One Minute Monologue category.
He was nominated for his rousing performance in the role of heroin addict Mark Renton, made famous by movie star Ewan McGregor in the 1996 movie ‘Trainspotting’.
Speaking in the Dáil last week, Deputy Neville highlighted the importance of the Arts and the need to continue supporting the sector.
“Fine Gael in Government is committed to working to progressively increase funding to the Arts, as the economy continues to improve. In fact since 2014, funding for the Arts has increased year on year. This is very welcome,” the Rathkeale-based politician commented.
“As an actor, who has taken part in several short films and worked on many projects and festivals, I am acutely aware of the value of the Arts to communities across the country and to the nation as a whole.
“Festivals, such as the Richard Harris International Film Festival and the Limerick Film Festival, which I have been involved in, are going from strength to strength. They are of huge value, both in cultural and economic terms and they should be supported.”
Deputy Neville went on to say that the Arts are vital to Ireland and their value cannot be overestimated.
“Fine Gael is committed to continuing to support the Arts community and Arts projects in Limerick and around the country,” he concluded.
by Alan Jacques
