Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

As the level of complaint indicated the ability to deal with issues in a real sense did not apply, the Government reduced the numbers of Oireachtas committees. The changes that now are being made will mean the committee dealing with transport will be joined with the committee dealing with communications. While I take the basis of the Deputy's suggestion as being constructive, it will be important for the committee itself to consider how best it might deal with this matter. Rather than having an interminable discussion on this issue, I see no reason the committee cannot decide to set up its own sub-committee to deal specifically with these issues. It could give it a remit of three months, during which time it could be supported and provided with backup to enable it to deal with hearings and a comprehensive range of the debate and then to report back to this House to have a full discussion here on the committee's recommendations, findings or proposals. In fairness to the committee itself, however, it should be allowed to present its views here and were precedent to be followed, a thorough analysis and comprehensive discussion could take place, out of which could come a set of recommendations the House could consider in this Chamber.

In the interest of public service broadcasting, in which the Minister, Deputy Rabbitte, has shown a deep interest-----

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