Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Bacik. We will obviously have to work with parties in this House on any legislative proposals we bring forward. My commitment is that the Cabinet makes the policy decision on future funding by the summer recess. The Minister, Deputy Catherine Martin, has been very clear that when we look through the 15 recommendations that pertain to the Government there will be a clear need for legislative change. Wherever, and somewhat regardless of where, we land on a funding model, there will need to be in addition to it a piece of legislation brought forward. My understanding is that our initial thinking is one piece of legislation to address a range of changes that are likely to be needed to the Broadcasting Act, the remit of the Comptroller and Auditor General being one change I am eager to see the Government progress.

There will be a decision by the summer recess and whatever legislation will flow from that. There will be the publication of a general scheme and the opportunity for scrutiny. There is a willingness on the part of the Government to work with the Opposition in terms of how we best advance that legislation.

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