Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I recognise and value the work done by RTE and TG4. In general, their broadcasting is of a very high standard. Local radio provides a public service, particularly in areas that cannot access RTE services. I would not argue that State funding should be made available to fund private broadcasting enterprises. However, I think there are community groups and projects that could do with exposure to the wider community. I ask the Minister to consider engaging with communities and supporting them in getting their message out via local radio. I also ask him to consider assisting not-for-profit community radio stations like Near FM in Dublin that provide a public service.

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