Mary White (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party)

I will be finished on time.

Without our local station we felt lost. It is there where we, particularly those of us who live in the public sphere, get our local political news on relevant local issues. It is vital that this legislation safeguards and secures the future of such stations. I agree with the IBI that perhaps the timeframe in terms of licences under the fast-tracking system might be revisited so that a longer term of licence might be considered. This would be in keeping with securing the future of local radio stations.

I also welcome the stipulations on advertising in section 41. While we all recognise the need for independent radio stations to secure revenue through advertising, it is important to maintain high broadcasting standards by perhaps limiting the amount of time for some advertisements. We are looking for content, not convolutedness. People listen to the radio and watch television for the content.

I congratulate the Minister on this Bill and I look forward to its swift passage through the House.

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