Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I, too, would like to pay tribute to the witnesses' organisations, and especially my local South East Radio. They lifted the spirit of rural Ireland. As politicians, people phone us often, and there are many people out there who are very lonely and isolated, and the witnesses' organisations helped to raise their spirits and helped to ease their minds. I thank them very much for that.

This question has probably been asked but I would like to ask Mr. Purcell about the real impact broadcasting can have on the climate change campaign. Can he give us an example of how it can be used to change people's mindsets?

The Covid sound and vision fund was a much-needed financial support for the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland, IBI. How important is it now to take steps to set up an annual fund to getting message across and to combat, as Mr. Purcell said, the conspiracy theorists and propaganda on climate change? We have very powerful actors acting against climate change. For example, we have a former President of the United States, so there are very powerful actors out there.

In regard to Community Radio Form of Ireland, CRAOL, the witnesses outlined the many difficulties Covid has caused rural radio stations, particularly the voluntary sector. What is needed now for these rural stations to continue and survive? How can we, an Oireachtas committee, help to alleviate some of the pressures they are under?