Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for his response concerning what we all agree is an important area. I welcome the review to be initiated. Will the Minister elaborate on when he hopes to undertake the review, who will undertake it and its anticipated terms of reference? I am sure he is aware of reports today that the independent broadcasters of Ireland are asking the Government that the planned new broadcasting charge which is expected to replace the licence fee should also fund independent radio stations. Will that issue fall within the remit of the review? The replacement of the television licence fee by a public broadcasting charge is a separate matter within the programme for Government. If the charge is to be used to extend funding to independent broadcasting entities will the Minister also consider extending public service obligations to such commercial broadcasters?

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