Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

I thank Deputy Ó Cuív for his remarks. I doubt if there is much difference between his philosophy and mine on this issue. There are specific statutory obligations in respect of the public service broadcasters, including TG4. They must fund the service without fear of intrusion into their independence. Public service broadcasting is about more than funding. It is about content and structures as well. The broadcasting fund has been successful. It has spawned a not insignificant number of independent producers who have carried out some quality work. Given the current climate, perhaps the commercial sector is finding it more difficult to remunerate those independent producers. However, in terms of innovation and imagination in the sector they have made a valuable contribution and it represents a beneficial use of the money. The Deputy will be aware that the last budget allocated some €10 million of the broadcasting fund directly to TG4. I intend to give effect to that.

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