Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

The experience of authorities in similar codes is that they do. It is common practice and although it does not exist on a statutory basis the sector can make its views known through representations. The directions I would give any such authority is that we want to see the sector strengthened. Everything we are doing is to continue the successful development of independent production. This has benefit not only for broadcasters as a resource but as an economic opportunity in the State to create employment and to create an industry. This is happening in the film industry with tax breaks, some of which have been greatly beneficial in the past year. The digital media services area is merging with the broadcasting area. Everything we are doing is to further strengthen the independent production sector.

Deputy Coveney referred to setting a percentage or a figure. Neither should be seen as the limit of what should be produced. The figure for independent production last year last year was significantly above the baseline figure. This is a baseline figure and it is a back stop check. It would not be in the interests of RTE, in responding to a difficult economic situation, to change from a successful strategy in the use of independent production, and this is something we would keep an eye on.

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