Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As we know, people rely on newspaper, TV, radio and online platforms to find out about local and national issues, to inform them about current affairs, to showcase our culture and especially to reach out to our Irish abroad and to bring the nation together at times of national celebration and reflection. I rely heavily on my own local media such as KCLR, The Nationalistand the Carlow People. I see how these traditional broadcasters and newspapers in Carlow are facing new and increased pressures. We need a media that informs, entertains and reflects us as a people and delivers value for money. How can we protect and enhance independent journalism and ensure creative artists have a platform to showcase our culture to the country and to the wider world? This is a significant issue for me. Disinformation is on the rise. Sustainable and impartial journalism has never been more important. That is why it will be important to have the Online Safety and Media Regulation Bill. I welcome the commitment the Minister has given that the Bill will be enacted by the summer or the end of this year. The timescale on this is of the utmost importance.

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