Ms Susan Kirby:

This issue is central to our presentation today. Last year, we very much welcomed the Government's multi-annual commitment to RTÉ of funding for 2025 to 2027, inclusive. In our view, that aligns very clearly with the European Media Freedom Act which is underpinned by our public service broadcasters having adequate, predictable and sustainable funding. We would like to see that extended beyond those three years, at least. We would also like to see it extended to TG4, recognising that its representatives are sitting beside us but also because of its centrality to our industry - ach go háirithe thar ceann na léiritheoirí atá ag cruthú trí mheán na Gaeilge – and specifically on behalf of our membership who are creating work through the medium of Irish. This Bill has indicated that 25% of all public funding would be spent in the independent production sector via RTÉ. It is critical that figure is adhered to and we would like it to be increased over time.