Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The witnesses are all very welcome. I thank them and all the groups they represent for the unbelievable public service they give. It is very easy to come here and give out about X, Y and Z but I have observed at first hand the impact they make to so many households around the country, in particular in Carlow and Kilkenny where I come from. I just wanted to acknowledge this and thank the witnesses for the service they provide.

I know the witnesses come from different backgrounds, whether independent broadcasting, community radio or local radio. I will try to vary my questions as best I can. The one common theme that seems to come through from everyone is the importance of trust in media. This message has come through loud and clear to me. The two things I am most passionate about are news and current affairs, and sports. All of the organisations here put phenomenal work into both of those areas. I note with interest the level playing field elements and the ring-fencing of funding, and we will get to those in a moment. It is important to acknowledge that role, including in respect of the Kilkenny People, KCLR and community radio down my way. The difference this makes to families is fantastic. Everybody is interested in something. I know people who tune in just to get the death notices. Rip.ie is probably taking funding away from local radio.

To get in to the specifics, I will start with the IBI. Reference was made to the new media fund in the legislation. How can it be improved to make it more accessible and suitable for independent broadcasters and local radio?