Christopher O'Sullivan (Cork South West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is not just a matter for RTÉ, but it is in everybody's interest that we keep this famous institution alive and that it continues to do the work it has done over the decades with quality public broadcasting. Yet, it is important people know where they stand.

The Minister indicated already that there may be a decision. I think she said, in a response to Senator Malcolm Byrne, it would be in the new year . The question I have for the Minister is about an opinion I would love to hear from her. We have heard from Senator Malcolm Byrne as a committee member, who indicated his preference. He felt it should be funded by the general Exchequer. I think the Tánaiste has expressed a different opinion and he would fear for the independence of the organisation if it were to be funded by the Exchequer. I would love to hear from the Minister. Between those three most obvious options, what would her preference be for how RTÉ funds the future of media? Would it be through a licence fee, a device fee or through general Exchequer funding?