Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have spoken to the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Bruton, and the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Madigan, about this matter. The Government is promoting balanced regional development in all areas. If Lyric FM is relocated, we will lose balanced regional development. Limerick is a crucial driver for the whole of the mid-west. It is a shame that RTÉ is considering closing Lyric FM. While I know a kiosk-type development will remain, if this proposal proceeds, RTÉ will be going against the grain with regard to what the Government is seeking. We are seeking to deliver balanced regional development. Six of every ten new jobs in recent years have been created outside of the greater Dublin region. That should also be kept in mind.