RTÉ news presenters
Senator Mulherin congratulated departing RTÉ presenters Bryan Dobson and Sharon Ní Bheoláin and welcomed the new all-female Six-One line-up, asking for a debate with the Communications Minister.
On a lighter note I congratulate Bryan Dobson and Sharon Ní Bheoláin and wish them well in their new positions. I am delighted to see that they are being replaced by an all-female line up. The two women, Keelin Shanley and Caitriona Perry, have an excellent track record as broadcasters and journalists.
Comment on this
There is no gender pay cut there.
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Ordinarily it seems as though boards, committees and line ups are dominated by men and they have to have a woman for balance. I am pleased that these great women will anchor the Six-One News. Six-One News and the Nine O'Clock News are staples of the Irish viewing public where many get their news and they develop a deep relationship with these broadcasters and a great affection for them. I wish the two who are departing well and look forward to hearing them in their new positions, and likewise for the two taking over.
Could the Leader invite the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Denis Naughten, before the House to discuss the draft renewable electricity support scheme? It is a great opportunity to discuss how we can expand our complement of renewable electricity sources to solar and offshore wind and how we can bring about community involvement. One of the specific objectives envisaged in the draft renewable electricity support scheme is that favour will be given to projects where communities are asked to get involved.
It must be explained to communities what that pathway might be in order that they can get involved because it is not clear. It involves money. I would like to hear from the Minister, especially as we have come under pressure to meet our renewable electricity and energy targets.