Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is, but some stations do a dhícheall uaireanta chun an Ghaeilge a chur chun cinn. The local and independent radio stations have their battles with us to get a better share of the funding, as I know because I am also a member of the Oireachtas Joint Committee for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. I have been very critical of RTE, not only in respect of Irish language and culture but also on issues such as the pro-life debate when it is biased. I do not know why but it gets away with spin and does not do what it should do. CCE's problem with opportunities for jobs in industry is huge, and other committees should consider it too. Businesses and the self-employed, as Mr. McCarthy said, should be valued.

The Vice Chairman does not need to ask Tourism Ireland about the Fleadh. I was at the Fleadh in Cavan and one would know from the difficulty of trying to get accommodation or to move around the streets and attend the competitions – indeed the uachtarán was at the opening-----