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Seanad

Broadcasting and Media in Ireland: Statements (Resumed)

For the purposes of clarification, I would not support a subsidy for local radio stations because we already collect one for a certain organisation and then subdivide it among another 32. That is, in effect, a subsidy. I am absolutely in favour of the abolition of the 2% levy, but I do not believe in subsidising commercial enterprises. I do not see the sense in collecting the licence fee and then apportioning the income across 32 other organisations.

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It is already happening under the heading of sound and vision. Some 7% is going towards the independent sector.

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It amounts to €3.7 million.

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The wall has been breached.

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There is a service provided, but I am not in favour of a block transfer. We must be careful that we do not end up using licence fee income to subsidise 35 organisations.

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Surely the Senator wants to improve local news and sports content.

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Terry Brennan Acting Chairman Fine Gael

I am sorry, but I should not have allowed in Senator Tony Mulcahy.

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I am absolutely in favour of the abolition of the 2% levy, but I do not believe in subsidising the other organisations.

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