Local radio funding
Deputy McGrath called for a debate on independent local radio stations, arguing they provide an essential service but operate on shoestring budgets. Deputy Healy-Rae added a brief point about Radio Kerry.
I want a debate about IBI, the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland. They came here ten days ago from all over the country. Local radio stations like Tipp FM and Tipperary Mid West Radio in County Tipperary and all over the country-----
Comment on this
Radio Kerry, of course. All of the radio stations do a valuable service. We will probably see €56 million handed over to RTÉ over Christmas. These stations are operating on a shoestring. They are not able to pay proper wages to the excellent staff and presenters they have. This time of year, facing into Christmas, they connect with local people and local stories. If there is inclement weather or power outages, they are the people who give the information. They do a tremendous service to this State and to the public, and they are operating on a shoestring. When will we have a proper debate to ensure they get properly funded and supported? They serve the people, unlike some of the people in Montrose with what happened there, and who are getting all of this money to be rushed away.