John Brassil (Kerry, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I greatly welcome the opportunity to speak and thank my colleague, Deputy Dooley, for tabling this very important motion. The need for funding for our local radio stations and local media goes without question. We need action from the Oireachtas. The support comes unanimously from Members on this side of the House. In that spirit I hope the Government Members will work with us and take the action that is needed now.

There is no better example of effective broadcasting than in my county, where more than 50% of the population, in excess of 83,000 people, listen to Radio Kerry daily. It provides a full range of programming covering music and current affairs. Every morning in the show presented by Jerry O'Sullivan and Treasa Murphy there is no better example of balanced political and current affairs debate. Deirdre Walsh has her "Talkabout" show at 1.30 p.m., which would give Joe Duffy a run for his money any day of the week. There is comprehensive coverage of sport, agriculture and business along with music shows every day.

The legendary Weeshie Fogarty, who unfortunately passed away recently, had a fantastic programme called "Terrace Talk" which won numerous awards.

It was an example of the kind of unique and individual programme which one would not get on national media but that local radio has the opportunity to produce. I fully support this motion. I ask for full support from across the House and that we provide the necessary funding to make sure that all local radio stations can fulfil their public service broadcasting obligations.

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