Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

The stopping of ads was an editorial decision for RTÉ and not something that would have been discussed with the Department. Its spend is a matter purely for RTÉ and not for the Minister. I suspect, given the timing, it was thought counterproductive because of the feeling of the public at that time. That is just me surmising.

On the TV licence shortfall, we cannot say if it is a trend yet but in November it is averaging at below 30% for the first time. The stats I have for the most recent week show a 2% difference on this time last year. Maybe it is a sign things are starting to change. We will see if that trend is established.

The €16 million, as the Deputy is well aware, is the interim funding as agreed under the Future of Media Commission. The €40 million will not be released at least until we see the recommendations from that commission. That would give us time to see advertising launched again and to see the TV licence. There are strict conditions. It is there but not released yet. We have to see the recommendations from those expert advisory committees.