Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I would nonetheless say to the Minister that while language, in terms of encouraging self-regulation, is one thing, assisting in self-regulation is quite a different thing. That is part of the concern. I would like an indication from the Minister on whether she is looking at the language that is being used in terms of the way the commission is to engage with the self-regulatory systems and if that is an area that she feels she may be able amend it. Again, where this states "co-operation with, or give assistance to, a person or group of persons" and "the preparation of that by the person of a group of standards" feels a little bit too hands-on. I appreciate that the amendments, as they are put forward at the moment, are quite a blunt removal, but I also think there is a difference between encouraging and giving a risk of a perceived imprimatur of endorsement to a self-regulatory system, which could arise from the way this is worded.

I appreciate the Minister made a strong point on the audiovisual directive and encouraging self-regulation. It would not be appropriate to have an amendment that states "shall encourage that there will be self-regulatory systems in addition", but would take a step back from this kind of assistance and co-operation language.