Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I accept the Minister's point in respect of the three years if that is specified in the audiovisual media services directive, but I believe it is important that there is engagement from her, as Minister, within her time in office. This is a substantial set of new provisions. While I am happy to accept the proposal in the audiovisual media services directive in respect of three years rather than annual reporting, I believe an interim report or some other mechanism that allows for proper scrutiny within a year to 18 months following the introduction of these media service codes would be appropriate and I may bring further amendments in that regard. I say this as a vote of confidence in the Minister and her Department in having brought forward the legislation. However, it would be appropriate to make provision that is not counter to the provision or requirement in the audiovisual media services directive for regular three-year reviews but may, in fact, be complementary to it. I reserve the right to come back on that initial point in particular.

As regards the consultations, unfortunately, there has been inconsistent practice in the context of consultation periods. We know, for example, that consultation periods have happened at Christmas or in other holiday periods. Many consultations happen in August and December. That can create situations where persons are not given adequate opportunity. I sought notification in advance because, having previously worked in civil society for 15 years and made a lot of submissions, I know it is arduous. It takes time. It is a significant burden to give opinions. For civil society, NGOs and members of the public to engage in processes is, in itself, quite burdensome. People need to find time on Saturdays or Sunday evenings and things like that. That is why I think it is good to put this in context. This is in no way to impinge the bona fides of the Minister or the intentions of the commission, but I need to press those amendments because they relate to good practice and consultation and, unfortunately, we do not currently have consistent good practice in terms of public consultation in Ireland. Again, that is not a reflection on the Minister. I know that her public consultations have been appropriately timed but, unfortunately, that experience across the public sector is uneven.