Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)

Okay, very diplomatic. I fundamentally disagree with the ministerial decision on the levy order. I have said so publicly. Most people who cannot really offer an opinion agree with me. It takes away the independence of Coimisiún na Meán and it is not in the spirit of what was initially sought. It was a retrograde step.

Deputy Ó Snodaigh did a bit of toing and froing with the witnesses on the levy order. I was intrigued by the use of language, that the Minister would "direct" and the order would then be designed and ministerial approval would be required again. I think it was Mr. Ó Domhnaill who said it was a belt and braces approach. I wrote that down. Before the changes that were made recently with the ministerial requirement, was the previous approach not belt and braces?