Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)

The most important issue raised in the Bill is that of addressing the future of the broadcasting sector, above all the protection of standards. In our homes every Deputy has viewed on the multiplicity of channels available to us total rubbish, much of which promotes violence and abuse, particularly of women. The standards of some of the programmes broadcast are disgraceful. While, in general, the standard of television and radio services in this country is high, we can see the need to exercise vigilance, given events in other countries. In particular, we need to ensure public broadcasting retains its central role. This is important when we see the so-called dumbing down of much of the broadcast media, particularly television.

While there are those who argue that so-called reality shows, sensationalised chat shows and so on are a reflection of popular culture, it is equally valid to state they actually help to form popular culture and in many instances not in a beneficial way to society. Likewise, there are those who argue that recent changes in RTE radio in respect of specific areas of the arts are a reflection of public demand. This argument has been used as justification for reducing the amount of time devoted to less popular forms of music and other items of minority interest. In general, however, RTE radio is far superior to most of its competitors in that regard.

The role of public broadcasting ought to be the same as that of any other public utility or service, namely, to cater for all sections of society, regardless of whether there is massive demand or whether it is commercially viable. If the main criterion was commercial demand and applied to museums, public parks, libraries, playgrounds or football pitches, they would disappear. It is vital, therefore, that the Bill protects the central role of public broadcasting and is all-inclusive. It should protect those with minority interests. It appears to provide mechanisms to ensure unsuitable individuals or companies will not be licensed. Section 66 also appears to set stringent criteria for content, including in paragraph (d), as well as conditions regarding the Irish language and other aspects of Irish culture. However, I would be happier if the Bill spelled out in concrete terms how this will be implemented by setting out, for example, the percentage of programming and airtime devoted to Irish language broadcasts and the level of Irish produced content. It must be more specific. I hope this suggestion will be taken on board.

I note the concerns of the Association of Independent Radio Producers of Ireland which welcomes the provision in section 116 for RTE to commission independently produced radio programmes but expresses concern at the level of funding available to ensure the sector will be able to meet any such demand. It is calling for 5% of the independent programme account, €2 million, to be set aside for the independent radio sector, which appears a reasonable request. It is something that could be redressed by way of an amendment to section 116.

It is necessary to clarify a number of issues regarding TG4. Everyone agrees TG4 has been a welcome development, not only with regard to Irish language programming but also in its coverage of sport and other areas, including some very interesting historical documentaries. I take great pleasure in watching footage of old all-Ireland games. I watched two or three of them last Christmas. I also take an interest in its controversial documentaries on the H-Block hunger strikes and the escape from the H-Block. It is a fantastic facility for those of like mind and with other interests and I would like to see the funding available for it continue. It is incumbent, therefore, on the Minister to ensure the channel is placed on a proper funding basis. It is not enough to leave it contingent on what might be decided by a new authority as proposed in the Bill. This would display the confidence of Members and those living on this island in the ability of TG4 to continue with the necessary confidence. It must be placed on a proper and secure financial footing. The Taoiseach has made clear and is obviously sincere in regard to his commitment to the Irish language. The Government has an opportunity with this legislation to introduce the required amendments to ensure TG4 is properly catered for and I urge it to do so.

Other provisions require amending. For example, the Bill should specifically refer to an obligation on broadcasters to prioritise the coverage of domestic sport events. Sports news should give first place to important events here rather than those in other countries, as is regularly the case. I welcome coverage of and watch practically all sports but from our perspective it is important that national games and domestic sport events should receive priority in the coverage available. Likewise, section 87 could be amended to ensure broadcasters fulfil their commitment with regard to programme content reflecting all aspects of Irish culture, including domestic sport events. The role of sport and the obligation of publicly supported broadcasters to cover it could be made part of their responsibilities by amending section 82 to include a specific reference to sport as one of the areas they are obliged to cover, particularly domestic sport events.

Section 96 provides for the establishment of an audience council. The section should include a specific reference to the inclusion of persons representative of cultural organisations with an involvement in various aspects of Irish life. It is important to get the balance right.

One other issue of which many will be aware is that of the changes made to the manner in which RTE formats its broadcasts. This has led to people outside the State not being able to access radio broadcasts and some digital coverage. I experienced this in the recent past when I was unable to pick up RTE radio services in parts of Belfast. RTE has been a great resource for Irish people abroad during the years and it would be a pity if they were to be denied what they regard as an important part of their identity and heritage. This is also a matter that could be addressed by amending section 114 to include a provision obliging the public broadcaster to ensure digital and radio broadcasts, particularly of major events here, are accessible outside the State.

The Bill is long overdue, requires some amendment and should be more specific in certain areas I mentioned. However, I welcome the fact that we are discussing it. I hope amendments will be taken on board to enable all of us to support it to its conclusion.

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