Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 1:

In page 4, subsection (1), line 14, after "funds" to insert "of which a minimum of two-thirds is dedicated for the community media sector.".

On Second Stage I spoke about the importance of community radio and the need to develop it. I also referred to the start-up costs involved in many cases. If we are to develop community bases, whether it is in radio or television, on a national basis, they will be stillborn unless some financial subvention is given to them.

When the Forum on Broadcasting discussed this area, the Minister spoke in favour of the development of community radio and television. That is important. Also, concern was expressed by RTE at the forum about the fact that 5% of the licence fee was being targeted at development. It indicated that its concern was that much of the funding would go to commercial entities, many of which are based outside the country.