Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I congratulate the Minister of State on his reappointment to Government, which was well deserved, and wish him well in his new portfolio. I also welcome the officials from the Department. I compliment the Minister, Deputy Ryan, on the Bill. I have listened to the contributions in the House and, like other Senators, I am delighted it has been introduced in this House because it gives recognition to the expertise in this regard that exists among Senators. This well-structured Bill is a indication that the Government members — the Fianna Fáil Party, the Green Party and the Progressive Democrats — are working well together. I am satisfied with the content of the Bill.

I welcome the Bill, which will enjoy broad support from broadcasters and interest groups. I also welcome the repeal of other Broadcasting Acts and the consolidation of all relevant legislation in one Bill. This approach is to be welcomed in all areas of legislation as it makes statutes much more accessible for all parties concerned. I also welcome the fact that under section 8, four of the nine members of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland will be appointed based on the advice of the relevant Oireachtas joint committee. The involvement of elected members in appointments to regulatory bodies is to be welcomed wherever possible. Many members would be very interested in joining the committee if they were aware they would have such responsibility. It is an indication of future developments with regard to appointments to boards. This is the first time in legislation that joint committees will have the responsibility of nominating members to a board. This is welcome as it is a step in the right direction. Other Departments will follow this lead.

I particularly wish to address the provisions of the Bill which deal with radio broadcasting. Even in the era of Internet communications and mobile telephones, the old technology of radio is more popular than ever and enjoys a particular place in the Irish psyche, as was evidenced by the huge public interest and concern when RTE decided to cease broadcasting on medium wave. This was a retrograde step.