Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I remind members and witnesses to turn off their mobile phones as they interfere with the sound system, make it difficult for parliamentary reporters to report the meeting and adversely affect television coverage and web streaming.

I draw the attention of the witnesses to the fact that, by virtue of section 17(2)(l) of the Defamation Act 2009, witnesses are protected by absolute privilege in respect of their evidence to this committee. However, if they are directed by the Chairman to cease giving evidence on a particular matter and continue to so do, they are entitled thereafter only to qualified privilege in respect of their evidence. Witnesses are directed that only evidence connected with the subject matter of these proceedings is to be given and are asked to respect the parliamentary practice to the effect that, where possible, they should not criticise or make charges against any person, persons or entity by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

I wish to advise the witnesses also that any submission or opening statement they have submitted to the committee may be published on the committee website after the meeting. Members are reminded of the long-standing parliamentary practice to the effect that they should not comment on, criticise or make charges against a person outside the House or an official either by name or in such a way as to make him, her or it identifiable.

The committee decided to prioritise public service broadcasting as part of its work programme for 2016. The committee decided to review the current funding model for public service broadcasting, the effect of advertising opt-out on broadcasters and to consider other related broadcasting matters. The committee may also examine media ownership in Ireland. The committee is aware of the difficulties with the current television licensing system, and of the rapid changes in technology with a reduction in funding through commercial revenues available to all broadcasters. Although this is the second meeting at which the committee will consider public service broadcasting, we have engaged with the Minister during previous meetings on its funding. The opening statements have been circulated and I propose that the three main witnesses will contribute for five minutes each, followed by a question and answer session where each member may ask questions for a period not exceeding three minutes. Is that agreed? Agreed.

We will have two sessions. Session B will take place at 6 p.m. approximately when we will meet representatives of RTE, TG4 and the Irish Film Board. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I welcome Professor Kevin Rafter, School of Communications, Dublin City University, DCU; Mr. John Purcell, chairman, Independent Broadcasters of Ireland, IBI, and chief executive officer of KCLR 96 FM; Mr. Tim Collins, director, IBI, and chief executive officer of Newstalk FM; and Ms Lisa Ní Choisdealbha, executive director, IBI; and Mr. Larry Bass, Screen Producers Ireland board member and Shinawil Productions and Ms Jennifer Kenneally, policy and communications manager.

I invite Professor Rafter to make his opening statement.