Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I move amendment No. 32:

In page 9, before section 8, to insert the following new section:

"8.—(1) It shall be a duty of the Commission for Communications Regulation to arrange for the collection of the annual tv licence from all those liable to pay such a licence, and to make available promptly to the Minister the full proceeds of such collection.

(2) In arranging for the collection of the annual tv licence, the Commission shall have special regard to—

(a) minimising the expenses of the collection process, and

(b) ensuring the maximum possible compliance by those liable.

(3) Before putting in place a system of collection, the Commission shall research best practice from around the world in the efficient collection of tv licences, and in particular shall pay special attention to arrangements (such as currently apply in Cyprus) which take advantage of an existing universal collection arrangement such as the domestic electricity bill.

(4) At five-yearly intervals following the commencement of this section, the Commission for Communications Regulation shall arrange to have carried out an independent assessment of the effectiveness of the collection arrangements in place, and shall provide an immediate report on such assessment to the Minister who shall as soon as may be place it before each House of the Oireachtas.".