Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I would prefer to speak first as I am on quorum duty. I am not as familiar with television as with radio but, from listening to the witnesses, I am amazed at the amount of activity in the sector. I am not ideologically opposed to ring-fencing, under the provisions of the Broadcasting Act, a stream of money for the community sector, whether television or radio. Perhaps this money should be for development but, like Deputy Colreavy, I believe the area is crowded. Everyone seems to be viewing the broadcasting charge as a way of being supported. The independent people also make the argument that they provide a community service. I do not mean to be disingenuous but we all want a piece of the action. What help can the witnesses provide us? This must be regulated and perhaps they can tell us how they see it being regulated. Can the witnesses give us advice? If we were to ring-fence an amount, should this be done under the public service obligation or because these are not-for-profit organisations?