Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

I thank Members for their contributions. In the Curragh, Bird's Nest was a horse that finished second in the champion hurdle.

It is good to listen to the Members here. I always enjoy the debate in the House. It is always a little different from that in the other House. It was lovely to listen to Senator Alex White, with his experience in RTÉ, speak with such passion and knowledge of that whole independent production sector. I thank Members for their contributions.

On Second Stage, I stated that I was anxious to garner the views of Senators as to the appropriate statutory interventions in respect of developing the independent production sector in Ireland. I recognise that a balance has to be struck in reconciling the legitimate interests of the public service broadcasters and those of the independent production sector. Overall, I can say that the existing and proposed new provisions demonstrate a very strong commitment on behalf of the Government to the independent production sector and, in particular, the independent radio production sector. That commitment is very much shared by Members here.

Having listened to the contributions made and in a spirt of good will, as sought by Senator O'Reilly, I propose to reconsider the text of section 116 before Report Stage.