Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael)

I commend Senator Mullen on tabling this worthy amendment which merits serious consideration. I also take note of the observations and qualifications Senator Norris made in respect of it which also merit serious consideration in terms of how one might practically implement the spirit of the amendment.

The number of people aged over 65 years continues to rise. There is much use of the broadcasting media among that sector and, for obvious reasons, they use it disproportionately more in terms of time than other sectors of the population. For that reason, it is worth proposing that all broadcasting services are aware of the over 65 sector and of producing material relevant to, and likely to be enjoyed by it, bearing in mind what Senator Norris said about this being blurred. Some people of 20 years will enjoy programming for the over 65s and vice versa. It is not cut and dried but a reasonable assessment could be made.

If the Minister cannot accept the amendment, he should consider the spirit of it, what it seeks to achieve and amend the legislation to include the concept it contains. It is a worthy idea. It is arguable that all these things are implicit in the broad principles of the Bill but it is no harm making them more explicit and definite in order to preserve such a principle in situations which might not be as benign.

I hear from the older people I know — we are all moving quickly in that direction — that they very much enjoy radio, particularly Radio 1 and their local radio stations, and the content of radio programmes. If that is the case, we should consider making television more friendly to that sector. I have been told older people enjoy radio more but more research might be required.

The principle of the amendment is good and the Minister should seriously consider it. I have no difficulty supporting the amendment. Senator Norris made very reasonable points about its implementation, delineation, demarkation, etc., in terms of programme content, timing and so on. I do not propose to go over those issues because he went through them very adequately. Subject to consideration of Senator Norris's points, we should support the amendment, the principle of which is good. I appeal to the Minister to give it serious thought.