Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

I have had a series of meetings with all parties involved on the State side including the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, the Networks company and ComReg, which has had a role in this on the spectrum side. At all stages I have done that on the basis of trying to get an outcome. I regret that that outcome has not come quicker and that the negotiations have taken so long. I have said that repeatedly in the House. However, my response cannot be to get involved in the middle of what could be a difficult legal and commercial process. That would only draw it out longer. I have said to all parties at a certain point that when it comes down to the commercial negotiations it is up to the BAI, RTE and the other parties to work through that. It would be wrong and improper if the Minister took on the negotiating position. It must follow the legislative course and if that comes to an end, we will act but we have made it clear that regardless of that process the switch off will occur at the end of 2012. That is certain, and that gives me confidence that we will get an outcome that will work.

See this speech in context