John Whelan (Labour)

I echo the sentiments expressed by Senators Mary Ann O'Brien and Quinn on the abuse of sick leave in certain limited circumstances around the country - not everyone is at it. I would be concerned if new legislation introduced to tackle this problem put any further burden on small businesses and employers who are already put to the pin of their collar in trying to keep their businesses open. The problem needs to be tackled but we had better ensure we do not throw out the baby with the bath water.

I ask the Leader to inform us on long-overdue legislation on the issue of media ownership and control that has been mentioned. I wonder will we have it at all this year. It has been mooted and has been kicked around all year. I raise the issue today on what is a sad day for me in that it marks the closure of yet another regional newspaper, the Offaly Express in Tullamore, with the loss of many jobs. Unfortunately, it co-incides with the passing of Mr. Kevin Farrell, one of the founding journalists of that newspaper who, true to form, missed the deadline yesterday evening, and when word of his passing came through, the newspaper had to be changed and held up before it was sent to print. It was characteristic that Mr. Farrell should have the last word. I take this opportunity to extend our sympathy to his wife, Eileen, and family.

The reality is that the media sector is under grave pressure. RTE is in serious trouble, with debts running in the millions of euro and further lay-offs being sought, including in the newsroom. National newspaper titles which have been in print for decades are under serious duress. Several regional titles which have been in operation for upwards of 200 years are facing closure. Consolidation of large newspaper groups both nationally and regionally, far from being beneficial for the sector, has diminished choice and diversity and employment levels have suffered. Representatives of the local radio sector will be in Leinster House tomorrow to set out their stall and outline their concerns. There can be no denying that the industry is in chaos, with jobs being shed and one title after another facing closure. Although this issue is under the remit of the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Pat Rabbitte, I understand the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton, is the lead Minister in terms of the pending legislation, with the latter having to divest responsibility to the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Can the Leader give any indication of when we might see movement on this long overdue legislation? It is very important for the future of the sector and the security of the jobs it provides, as well as for the public in general.