Mr. Conor Goodman:

In the spirit of summing up I thank both the questioners and the contributors today. I have learned a good deal about the industry, particularly from some of the points that Dr. Wheatley made. Professor Wheatley, Mr. Dooley, Mr. McGuinness and Senator Carrigy spoke about training and recruitment. I am speaking for The Irish Timesbut also as part of a group that includes local newspapers and many local radio stations, some of which are represented. I would be confident that despite its difficulties, the industry can prevail if the current difficult environment can be made more hospitable for us.

On the various points, we have expressed our enthusiasm for the VAT reduction, which we hope will continue indefinitely. In response to the point about juries and defamation, the reform of defamation laws would be crucial for the future of the industry. My feeling on the constant review of the relationship with the technology companies, particularly the advertising market we share, is that we do not share enough of it. If the relationship between the technology sector and the news providers can always be evaluated and improved, that could only be good for the industry. I thank everyone for listening.