Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Maintaining robust public service broadcasting has never been more important, given fake news and other interference in the media. RTÉ and TG4 have significant funding gaps, to the tune of €30 million and €4 million, respectively. I am sure that the loss of advertising revenue during the Covid-19 period has made the situation worse.

It is also important to note the importance of TG4 as a public service broadcaster. I hope that the work of the commission will support it to grow and continue to produce excellent programming, as well as provide vital jobs in Gaeltacht areas and the television production sector.

I know that RTÉ was given €10 million in additional funding last year but it is still well short of the €30 million deficit. The licence fee needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency, as has been flagged up by all sectors.

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