Reporters Without Borders highlighted today that the high concentration of media ownership is the biggest threat to press freedom in Ireland. At the same time, we read of threats that Rupert Murdoch or the Barclay brothers could end up owning Independent News and Media, a development that would be greeted with dismay by anyone with an interest in Irish democracy or fair and balanced public debate. The only career move in Irish journalism seems to be to become a press secretary for a Minister. There is nobody in the Press Gallery today. They are all over in the ministerial corridor in Government Buildings. Does the Government intend doing anything to take the recommendations of the joint Oireachtas committee on the funding of Irish media or is it content to let Irish journalism wither on the vine and pay the huge price with regard to our very democratic system if this ongoing decline in Irish media is allowed to continue?

There is legislation dealing with media mergers that would lead to excessive concentration. That involves an assessment of any proposed mergers or takeovers by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and my Department. In terms of the future of the media, as the Deputy is aware, we will introduce a broadcasting Bill very soon. It has been delayed somewhat because of the focus on other matters we all know of. It will afford the House an opportunity to debate the changes as well as provide some badly needed changes in respect of the broadcasting media.