Mr. Alan Esslemont:

Independent creativity is really important to TG4 in our television production. We are set up on a publisher-broadcaster model and having strong independent companies is the core of TG4's success. We have had a strong dedication to the regions. In fact, a lot of our industry would not be working in the regions if not for the input of TG4. I have become worried over the past three or four years, however, as I see that, even for companies working for us, if they are in Dublin, it is easier to grow scale. There needs to be a spotlight on the development of our industry in the regions. I am very worried that, as members will be aware, the section 481 regional uplift relief has tapered off and will disappear at the end of this year. That will have a very bad impact on any company that is trying to grow scale within the regions. TG4 is still working on this issue with partners and stakeholders. By the middle of this year, we hope to come to the Department of Finance with an idea for how the regional uplift scheme can be reinstated. It is core to our industry in the regions.