Seanad debates
Wednesday, 19 October 2011
Order of Business.
11:00 am
Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)
What is important when we come to discuss the media in Ireland, is that we consider the monopolies that are developing. I can recall that when local radio was being established it was intended to give a voice to each community. Monopolies have since developed and we have seen ownership from what could be considered a monopoly creeping in to local radio. We have seen local newspapers being bought by agencies outside this country - my own area being an example of that. If this is the case, why are we not having a debate on the issue of responsibility of monopolies? Nine or ten years ago we were particularly worried about this issue and since then much has happened that should not have happened. I would like the Minister to come to the House to debate this issue very shortly. I think it is not just for the good of the country but in the long term it will benefit the media.
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