Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister and I do not disagree on the value of the local print media. It provides independent and quality journalism, but we are in danger of losing it. The Minister spoke of the need to avoid the perception of interference by Government that would result if it were to fund the local print media. That is an excuse; it is not a reason. The Government helped to fund local radio, and rightly so. Nobody is accusing the Government of trying to interfere, editorially or otherwise, as far as local radio is concerned. The explanation given by the Minister is an excuse, not a reason.

I am sure that it is not beyond the bounds of the Minister's Department to find an arms-length scheme or way of helping local newspapers to provide a sustainable future.

See this speech in context