Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Lupton, Ms Fitzpatrick and Dr. Docquir. My first questions are for Ms Fitzpatrick. Would it be beneficial to include in the Bill a clause setting out a specific date for the immediate appointment of a regulator? She stated that the inclusion of social management liability is undermining the credibility of the Bill. Who then should be liable within the Bill?

Dr. Docquir outlined the idea of setting up a national social media council. How would its members be chosen? What main role does he foresee the social media council having in framing individual content decisions and the protection of freedom of expression and the protection of fundamental rights?

While I appreciate that Mr. Lupton indicated he did not want to answer this question, he spoke about two European Acts, namely, the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act. He stated that a significant legislative review will be required, along with the possible unpicking of a section of the Bill. In his expert opinion, will he outline any reservations he has about the European Acts? How could they outweigh or possibly interfere with the Bill before us? He went on to state that the establishment and function of any content levy scheme is likely to be highly complex and may result in unintended consequences. What unintended consequences was he was referring to?