Paddy Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I want to raise again the issue of the local print media and the difficulties it has because of its declining revenue from advertising. We all know how valuable the local print media is but it is getting no assistance. While there was some reduction in VAT, it needs assistance at this point. I have no problem in saying that it should have the same assistance as the local radio station sector. Some of our finest broadcasters cut their teeth with the local print media.We have many fine local newspapers throughout the length and breadth of the country. I again ask the Leader to bring to the attention of the Minister what can be done so that some assistance would be given at this difficult time for local print media.

Every Member of the House here received a letter recently from Mr. Ken Murray regarding communications. The communications part of Leinster House heretofore had put in place Mr. Murray and Mr. Tim Ryan, who used communicate what had happened in this House and in the other House to the local print media and radio stations. It was a great service for this House. I ask that the commission has a look at this.

A survey is being carried out here in the Oireachtas, seemingly on this issue. There are many new Members in both Houses who did not realise that service was being provided by Mr. Murray and Mr. Ryan. In particular, they gave all of what happened here in these Houses to the local print media. Mr. Murray did the clips. I ask that this service would be brought back into Leinster House because what happens here in the Seanad will be brought directly to the local print media throughout the length and breadth of the country. I would ask that the Cathaoirleach bring that up at the Commission.