Rónán Mullen (Independent)

I found myself imagining the scenario where the Minister returned from his summer holidays, full of vim and vigour, to tell his civil servants it would be better to give 5% to create a proper independent radio production centre. I also imagined him telling them to re-examine the heritage television channel. I would like to think it was more than a daydream. Since the Bill will not be passed by the Dáil before the summer recess, I hope the Minister will listen to more of our suggestions.

I commend the Minister on going some way with these proposals. The Association of Independent Radio Producers of Ireland and others, however, believe the Minister is not going far enough in providing for 5% of the budget. It is worth noting Senator O'Toole's comments on the importance of radio in people's lives. We are trying to promote a quality independent radio sector.

The amendment will allow for funding of €1 million to be spent by 2013. On year one allocations, this will mean one programme per week and just two at the end of the five years. This does not envisage the expansion in the production of independent programmes that the Minister is serious about. The reasonable 5% only accounts for one-fifth of the increase of €10 million which brings the overall total to €40 million, with television programmes being guaranteed 95% of this. Given that the Minister accepts the principle, why does he not take it further?

I know the Minister has been listening to the argument for some time. He was part of the discussion on the e-consultation process in the 29th Dáil. There may be arguments that this fund is only a kick-start. What is the point in having one if it comes with such a low ceiling? Whereas the provision states "no less than 3%", in the real world that figure becomes the maximum. It would be unfair to suggest the Minister is striking a balance between this new radio venture and the television sector. A budget with 3% versus 95% does not represent a balance. The importance of radio in many people's lives is often understated.

I do not know if the Minister is in mind to get more adventurous over his summer holidays. I welcome the step he has taken, so far that it goes. I support the other Senators and the Association of Independent Radio Producers of Ireland in seeking a provision of 5% and not 3% as a maximum to be devoted to the production of independent programming.