Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We should consider the amendments put forward by the Independent Senators and Senator Black on advertising. This is especially relevant for advertising and broadcasting of a main sporting event. If such an amendment was to be brought forward, there is nothing to say it has to be put in place immediately. It could come in by way of regulation at some stage in future. I am somewhat concerned, because if we do not include it now, we might have to wait a further ten years to bring in corresponding legislation. Can that be examined?

RTE is the national broadcaster. There is a need for RTE to move away from advertising drink, in particular, around sporting events. RTE is funded by the taxpayer in one way or another. We all pay TV licences, but we do not pay TV licences for people to promote a product that may be harmful to people's health. This is something we should consider. The amendments proposed in this area should be looked at carefully. I am not suggesting they have to be implemented immediately, but the measures could be brought in by way of regulation at some stage in future. If we have to come back with legislation to deal with this issue at a later date, it will be more difficult to get through because of media groups.

We have dealt with the issue of lobbying already. I assure the House that when media groups get involved in lobbying, they are well able for it. We would have to go through another round of lobbying. Why not do the whole lot together? I call on the Minister of State to consider the matter and bring forward the measures by way of regulation.