Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

I have already agreed that the consultation process should be extended to 4 July in order to allow the debate - which quickly became heated, although not at my instigation - to be worked through in a way that will be positive for all sides. It is not good to have uncertainty or for matters of this nature to be unduly delayed. As well as being brought to Government, this matter will also have to be submitted to the European Commission for approval. The latter will be obliged to ensure that what we intend meets the standards laid set down in the audio-visual media services directive. I hope to obtain clarity on the matter by autumn. It takes a certain period for issues of this nature to be dealt with at European level.

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