Vol. 138 No. 7
I move:
That Seanad Éireann notes the measures which the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht has introduced to strengthen the film and broadcasting sectors in Ireland.
May I begin by welcoming the Minister to the House? I hope this debate will add light — whatever about heat — to the affairs of his Department.
Senator Magner is inviting Senator Ross to speak.
I never invite Senator Ross to anything if I can avoid it. Nevertheless, I am glad that Senator Ross is here.
The formation of the new Department of Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht was welcomed by all involved in those areas, but the announcement of who was to head it politically evoked a great outburst of congratulation from those in the fields of art, theatre, writing and broadcasting. They were delighted that a person of the calibre of Deputy M. Higgins was chosen. This welcome was based on their knowledge of his fine public record. His lifelong contribution to the political life of this country has been significant. He has had an enormous amount of political courage. When many of us faltered, he stood firm to his convictions and in many cases was proven correct. He always had the political courage to swim against the tide and has commanded a tremendous respect across the political spectrum throughout his political life.
Is Deputy M. Higgins going?
His contribution to the artistic life in this country is well known. He will be here long after some of the Members on the other side of the House are long forgotten.
Have passed away.
People realised that this Department would require a Minister of courage and vision and in Deputy M. Higgins they knew that they had such a Minister. The repeal of the Broadcasting Act, 1990, which removed the cap on advertising from RTE, was of immense importance in restoring to RTE the scope to provide the revenues which, in effect, they had lost. It also greatly distorted their market. The appointments of people of the calibre of Leila Doolin and Niall Stokes have been heralded as new, exciting, brave and courageous. If ever we need needed bravery and courage we need it now and the Minister is providing it.
The Programme for a Partnership Government sets out clearly the priorities of this Government for Irish broadcasting. It set out to repeal the advertising cap on RTE, which I have already mentioned. This was to provide for improvements in the range and quality of the public service broadcasting system. It also sought to breathe life into the independent film production sector, where we hope to increase jobs and output in the audio-visual industry, giving companies a firm home base to enable them to compete internationally. We wanted to ensure that commercial local radio stations remain viable. We wanted to ensure that Irish advertisers had access to a strong Irish domestic television advertising medium. While other channels, such as Sky and BBC, have been transmitted to the east coast for a considerable period, it was important for advertisers to have a strong Irish medium through which to reach those viewers who could not tune into these channels.
It is satisfying to note that progress has been made. The Broadcasting Authority (Amendment) Bill, 1993, lifted the advertising cap. It also gave RTE clear instructions on budgeting for independent productions. I am sure that the results of that decision in the amendment to the Broadcasting Act will be outlined by the Minister in the House this evening.
Some £5 million is to be spent on programmes commissioned from the independent sector in 1994, increasing annually to £10 million in 1998. After that year RTE will have to make 20 per cent of television expenditure available for this purpose, or £12.5 million, whichever is the greater. This is to be welcomed because, certainly in the film sector, there was a great need to encourage those who had the courage to put up their own money and try to survive in a hostile environment, which Ireland then was. As I said at the outset, when I was lauding the Minister — Senator Ross referred to this — at least we have someone who recognises that while this is the land of Beckett and Wilde, it is also that of U2 and Roddy Doyle. That is the combination the Minister embodies and that sort of knowledge and vision makes the difference. Who would have the nerve to substitute Niall Stokes for a judge? You would not.
Is the Senator speaking to me?
Yes.
Could the Senator speak through the Chair, please?
The Senator would not have the guts to do it because people like my colleague, Senator Ross, proceed along long-established tram tracks. Senator Ross could not make courageous decisions in relation to such appointments. The Minister for the Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, Deputy M. Higgins, has the type of vision necessary to improve this Department for the people. The £12.5 million available after 1998 will boost the industry and will allow us to tap into the wealth of talent available in this country, not only in terms of films but also in terms of music, the arts and so on. This is a welcome development.
When the Minister was appointed he undertook to carry out a full review of many aspects of the communications area. This review resulted in the changes I outlined, but it is an ongoing process and no aspect can be looked at in isolation.
In relation to section 31 and the illegal organisations, the Opposition has tabled an amendment to renew the statutory order banning television coverage for members of illegal organisations contained in section 31 of the Broadcasting Act, 1960. This amendment is irresponsible at this time. Given the climate which exists in this country and the momentum for peace, the inclusion of this amendment is, to say the least, unhelpful to the peace process at present. While the Labour Party has said that section 31 should be repealed, this fact is not contained in the Programme for a Partnership Government. As a result the Labour Party has no right to impose its will. Whatever decision will be made by this Government, it is unhelpful and irresponsible for Fine Gael to try to preempt an important decision by the Government.
In terms of the Northern Ireland debate, we are not living in normal times. There is a particular mood in this country at present. This was expressed by Senator Manning when he asked the Tanáiste to come into this House so that statements could be made on Northern Ireland. Some people call this mood the window of opportunity for peace, something we all want. Therefore, to amend the motion for political advantage or to try to create political embarrassment——
We only wanted to support Government policy.
Senator Magner, without interruption.
——is unhelpful. The people on the Opposition benches know this.
It is unhelpful to the Minister.
Terrorism is always terrorism.
Of course, and the Government is dealing with this. There were plaudits today for the British Government for capturing the consignment of arms. This Government has been extremely active, as have other Governments, in curtailing the activities of the IRA in this part of the country whenever possible. This motion deals with the arts, culture, the Gaeltacht, films and broadcasting. However, the amendment deals solely with section 31, although the Opposition knew the context in which it would be discussed at Government level.
The move towards peace in Northern Ireland involves many factors and none of these should be dealt with in isolation. One cannot isolate anything in this process at present; everything must be in the pot. People may say it should be removed or retained as an issue of principle. However, on this occasion it is necessary for everyone to take a step backwards. This attempt to embarrass us will not succeed.
That would be hard to do.
I suppose it would be. However, attempts such as this to cause potential political embarrassment will not succeed in this House.
As we know.
Section 31 was put in place in the mid-seventies at a time when there was a need for such legislation. During this time there were many atrocities, including Bloody Sunday and the bombings in Dublin, and the perpetrators had open access to the airwaves. Section 31 was brought in to deal with this. People, including members of my party, had different views on this issue. However, it is public knowledge that the Minister is preparing an aide memoire for Cabinet and it is being discussed at that level. A decision will be taken according to the circumstances which pertain at the time of the decision.
Since taking office the Minister has shown great courage and clarity of thought. The appointment of Mr. Niall Stokes as chairperson of the Independent Radio and Television Commission board and the board members indicates his understanding of the communications industry and the need to move the process forward. People who have worked in the area are best equipped to guide it through the waters of ever changing technology and increasing competition. The demands of a sophisticated audience can only be met by experts. Mr. Niall Stokes and other are experts in communications as they are involved in this area.
The establishment of the separate television channel, Teilifís na Gaeilge, is welcomed by people who have been involved for many years in the promotion of the Irish language. Those people who wish to preserve and extend the use of Irish throughout the country are entitled to this service. However, it is an additional facility which we could use to create a service such as the Open University which was established by Mr. Harold Wilson in the late 1960s. The Open University has proved its worth in Britain over the years. It has opened the windows of opportunity for people from all walks of life, not least those in prisons. It is a waste to lock people away for 14 or 15 hours because of staff reductions.
Does the Senator not think there are many windows of opportunity on RTÉ 1 and RTÉ 2?
Senator Magner, without interruption.
There could be, but that involves a dispute about the content of programmes which RTE makes. I am talking about using the new Teilifís na Gaeilge channel. There would be adequate time to cater for the people who wish to have programmes in the Irish language. In the wider context it would be a welcome development to introduce second chance education, that is, the Open University channel. It has been proven that this is one of the cheapest ways to reach a large audience, particularly those in prisons and those who want to avail of second chance education.
This new channel should be aimed at children. Children seem to forget the Irish they are alleged to have learned when they move from primary to secondary schools. Those who learn more Irish in secondary school have forgotten it by the time they go to third level education because of lack of use. There are few places in an urban society where one may learn Irish and there are few programmes one may watch. Therefore, its use is restricted. The establishment of this channel by the Minister will foster the language. I am one of those who did not benefit from the system, because peeling potatoes on a ship at 15 years of age is not a good beginning.
At the end of the day I respect the views of those who wish to have that sort of facility. I applaud the Minister for having the courage to introduce it. I urge him to consider the point I made in relation to the Open University element of that broadcasting system.
In conclusion, I am pleased and delighted that somebody of the courage and vision of the Minister, Deputy M. Higgins, heads this Department which is so important to us and our children.
I, too, welcome the Minister to the House. He is one of the people in the arts in this country who has an outstanding character. He will be long remembered after he has left his present Department by the people interested in the arts and broadcasting in this country. However, we are lucky he is there at the moment. I second Senator Magner's motion. The development of telecommunications services in this country and worldwide has been phenomenal over the last number of years. We must have certain controls over broadcasting and I have no doubt that the matter will be well looked after by the present Minister. Broadcasting and television today is a way of life. When one looks at the present worldwide satellite services, it is important that controls exist to make sure that the proper type of information is broadcast. The satellite services are there for profit. One can have unpleasant and unsavoury programmes, but there can also be choice programmes such as those dealing with sport. This country is sports mad and it is nice to have the satellite service to fill the gap that was there for a long number of years.
For the first time we have had to sit down, look at the values of home life and consider what is being beamed into it. Unfortunately someone other than parents is getting the message through to our children. Parents no longer make a big impression, but rather what is being sold on the screen. Children are very much interested in television and broadcasting and we must be sure about what they are watching and listening to. Some of the material being turned out by some of the satellite and foreign stations is frightening. Sometimes it amounts to an attack on our culture, and we must be on our guard in relation to what is shown. I welcome the Minister's controls in that regard.
International viewing is here to stay and there is little we can do about it. We must not just think of those who are able to watch television, enjoy what they have seen and carry on from there. There are many others to think about, such as the elderly, people who are in hospitals and the disabled, who spend much time watching television. It is important that Irish culture continues to be reflected and that something other than international material, in which people have absolutely no interest, is shown. Irish television and radio is of the highest quality. I prefer listening to the radio rather than watching television. What we are getting at present is first class. It is important that controls are there for the benefit of Irish viewers.
The Irish film industry was mentioned. Given the success of films that were turned out in this country in recent years, such as "My Left Foot" and "Into the West"— fabulous films with a strong Irish background — it is important that money be given to this area. This country will benefit dramatically through the input of people like the Minister. The legislation in this area is probably 30 years old and needs to be upgraded. It is very safe in the hands of the present Minister.
I move amendment No. 1:
After "Ireland" to add the following:
"; and following his current review, calls on the Minister to ensure the renewal of the Broadcasting Act, 1960 (section 31) Order, 1992."
When I heard Senator Magner's speech I had a very unhappy feeling of dejà vu. I felt that not only had the Minister possibly resigned but perhaps that there was a ghost in front of us. I have never heard so many tributes paid in this House to a Minister so short a time in office. While I share the Senator's admiration for the Minister, it is inappropriate to use the House for such personalised tributes. I should have known that the Minister had not resigned. Early on in his career as a Minister I thought he would resign and I was horrified when I heard that he had been allocated the bed of nails which was section 31. I felt that might be the end of his career, but the Minister ploughed through that and bravely decided that he would not resign as a result of having to implement Government policy on section 31. Early this week I felt that perhaps the Minister would resign——
The Senator means "hoped". Get the word in.
Not hoped.
Senator Ross without interruption.
When the Minister was in Opposition his great babies were the interpretative centres. His promotion of the fact that they were a hindrance and damaging the environment was destroyed by a junior Minister this week and I felt the Minister might resign. Unfortunately, he did not do so. I understood why when I heard this morning that he had got his way with Teilifís na Gaeilge and that he would be able to go ahead with this scheme at an extraordinary cost to the taxpayer. I completely accept his assurances that there will not be taxes on videos, but it will mean that there will be increased taxes for a station for which there is a very small minority demand.
I wish to address the question of section 31 and the fact that it is coming up for renewal in a few weeks. I resent and reject Senator Magner's statement that it is unhelpful to discuss it at this time.
It is his opinion.
It is not the business of Oppositions to be helpful to Governments. It is healthy that this should be discussed at this time, because exactly the process which Senator Magner so eloquently described as a peace process is also encouraging a very dangerous mood developing in this country.
This is an acceptance of the terrorists and their apologists, who have been rightly kept off our screens for so long. One does not have to watch RTE to realise that there is a growing acceptance of people like Mr. McGuinness and Mr. Adams, and people on the Loyalist side also, in the media in this country. It would be absolute folly for the Minister or this Government to encourage that acceptance by saying "They are all right. We will repeal section 31. We will let them on like everybody else". They are not like everybody else and there is no point in pretending they are like everybody else.
There is a debate opening in the media, which apparently is discouraged in this House, about putting these people on the air. That is a very dangerous debate in the sense that there are many people saying they would be acceptable on the air.
It is extraordinary that after every bad tragedy in Northern Ireland terrorism, for some perverse reason, becomes more acceptable in this country rather than less. After Enniskillen they started talking to terrorists. After Warrington Mr. Hume started talking to terrorists. There was Greysteel last week and the Loyalist arms find this morning and they are still talking to terrorists. For some amazing, perverse reason we are now talking about putting these people on the air when things are worse. It is not as if things have calmed down. There was the Shankill bombing and they are talking about putting terrorists on the air. It is absolutely unacceptable. The Minister's public agonising about this has not helped the situation because, whether he likes it or not, it gives genuine credibility to these people. I accept the Minister's concern about this matter. He is on record as being against the renewal of section 31. It is a pity someone in authority expresses such public reservations because it gives tremendous succour to terrorism and those who want to get on the airwaves.
There are two schools of thought on this matter. The first, the intellectual school of thought, wants to puts murderers and those responsible for Warrington and Enniskillen on the air. They want to argue with these people to make them look stupid and answer for bombings in Belfast and elsewhere. That is a highly intellectual argument, put forward by those who are conceited about the strength of their argument; but they do not consider the power of others to use the media to promote themselves in a lethal way. Television is as much about technique and cosmetic tricks as it is about content. It is unrealistic for anyone to say these people can be made to look stupid on television. These people will use television to recruit. Even if they appear in restricted circumstances — for example, after tragedies and atrocities — they will successfully use it to recruit.
There second school of thought is more dangerous. There is a group of people would like to see these people on the air because they support what they are doing. They use disingenuous arguments as to why they should be allowed on air. The interview of a terrorist would make exciting television, but it would be irresponsible. This is what the "freedom of speech for Mr. Adams' brigade" wants and that is unacceptable.
I want to achieve a balance in this regard. As the Minister knows, section 31 is fairly balanced. It outlaws the IPLO, the IRA, Sinn Féin, the UDA and all — I am sure the Minister will correct me if I am wrong — prescribed organisations in Northern Ireland. Presumably, it outlaws the UFF, the UVF and all Loyalist paramilitary organisations from the airways and that is correct. The one thing these people have in common is they all advocate violence, murder, bombing, kneecapping and other unacceptable activities. That is the bottom line. I have no quarrel with those who want to put Sinn Féin on the air when they renounce violence, but we must be sure they do so. We cannot put them on the air when they have the ballot box in one hand and the armalite in the other.
I expect the Minister to say he received a submission from RTE and to suggest other ways of dealing with this matter. RTE could be left to implement the policy of not putting terrorists on the air. It could be left in an invidious position because it would have to make unacceptable decisions and there would be a row each time one of these individuals went on air. Violence is the bottom line. Freedom of speech is not an absolute right and I am sure the Minister would accept that. The Minister's party supported the Incitement to Hatred Bill when it was put through this House. It was rightly supported because there are standards in society for which we must make sacrifices. We must sacrifice freedom of speech in order to protect ourselves against evil, and the Incitement to Hatred Bill is an example of this. This order curbs incitement to violence and crime. I congratulate the Minister for implementing it and I hope he will do so on 19 January.
I second the amendment. I welcome the Minister to the House and on behalf of Fine Gael Members I support Senator Magner's expression of thanks and appreciation. No Member of either House has been as committed to arts, culture and the Gaeltacht as the Minister and he has our support in this regard. His involvement in this area is well know and acknowledged.
Regarding the arts, culture and broadcasting, I hope the Minister will improve the lot of those involved in these areas. I hope he will accept the amendment put down by Fine Gael. In this season of self-congratulations by the Labour Party, we would be happy to join in if the Minister accepts our amendment and gives a commitment to renew section 31 of the Broadcasting Act, 1960.
Senator Ross asked who are the people who want to abolish section 31. As Senator Magner said, the people and organisations included in section 31 are responsible for the Dublin and other bombings over the years. Terrorism is terrorism whether it is in Dublin, Enniskillen or the Shankill Road. Some of the individuals who certain people would like on the airways carried coffins after the Shankill Road bombing despite talks which had taken place. Whatever happens as a result of further talks, we urge restraint in the days to come. We hope a system will emerge which will bring peace and a solution to this problem. However, I urge a note of caution in relation to media hype about these matters. We in Fine Gael will not hinder or politicise any aspect of this.
Section 31 applies to the self-styled individual who would benefit from the removal of censorship, but this person would have difficulty explaining mistakes or and how he or she "censored" the right of a murdered victim to live.
It is important for the Minister not to pussyfoot around with this. He was quoted some weeks ago as saying that it would not be a resigning issue for him. He may have his own personal ideas on the issue, and I know he has always been against certain forms of censorship; but I think he has a duty as a Minister and in relation to his Cabinet colleagues. Of course, it should not be a resigning issue for the Minister. But it is important that in the weeks ahead he ensures that the ban remains in place. I am sure that will have the full support of all Members of this House, including the Minister's own party colleagues.
When discussing section 31 it is important that we do not allow certain people to sway our judgment. I saw the "mass rally" in Molesworth Street just before lunch and all eight or ten people there wanted section 31 abolished. It is important to look at this seriously, to look at the consequences and realise why it has been there for many years, going back to when the Minister's former colleague, Dr. Cruise O'Brien, reintroduced it in 1976. I would hope that the House would not divide on the issue and that the Government will accept the motion as amended.
We obviously support the various developments in relation to arts and culture. I, for one, question the recent announcement of an Irish language TV channel. The Minister has not yet fully explained how it is going to be paid for. Will the licence fee go up? Will there be a further charge on video rentals? People are already being charged quite a lot for the licence, Cablelink, etc.
In the light of the awards made to John Rocha, the Minister should be looking at the situation in RTE where, after Christmas, a very topical programme like Head to Toe is being axed. As Senator Maloney said, there are many good people in RTE producing various programmes; some of these people are second to none. We have seen tremendous sports programmes and, hopefully, the World Cup coverage from America next year will be great. While I wish the Minister well in what he is planning to do, I would ask him to tell some of the RTE people in cosy jobs to examine where improvements can be made, and to ensure that extra Irish programmes are made. That is where I would like to see the £17 million going. Our priority should be to give people a wider choice of channels than the currently restricted choice.
I will conclude by reverting briefly to the amendment moved by Members on this side of the House. I would ask the Minister not to pussyfoot around. I am sure he is brave enough to make the decision and stand over it. It is not a resigning matter; it is something which the Minister has supported in the past. I think the Minister sees the need for it still and recognises why it is there. A message needs to be sent out from this House that the people who say violence can perhaps be stopped can stop it if they want to. We should not have to pull and drag them; it is up to them to renounce violence and then they can come on the airwaves.
I welcome the Minister to the House and support the motion, which states:
That Seanad Éireann notes the measures which the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht has introduced to strengthen the film and broadcasting sectors in Ireland.
The Minister has only been in office for a short time. I said on his first visit as Minister to the Seanad that he was a man who had the right attitude. He has vast experience in the world of publishing and I knew we would make a lot progress with him in charge of that portfolio.
I also welcome the repeal of section 3 of the Broadcasting Act, 1990, which, Members will recall, removed the advertising cap from RTE. This was a significant move and took place within a short time of the Minister taking office. I also welcome the significant increase in commissions from RTE to the independent film production sector. This amounts to £5 million in the first year, rising to £12.5 million in the fifty year. That is a magnificent gesture to start an industry that has massive job potential, not just through films but also through their role in promoting a new and extended tourist industry, which the country is ripe for. The potential that exists in this private sector is enormous.
As we are all aware, RTE has undertaken to advertise and examine what future programming opportunities exist in the private sector. They had over 200 applications for an experienced broadcaster and I welcome the fact that Claire Duignan has been appointed to the position. One can see the enormous job potential and wealth of talent that exists among those 200 applications. The Minister should consider extending this scheme to the music video sector, where costs are very high. The eight to 18 year olds have already formed their attitudes and tastes. We are living in the age of video promotion for songs and books. In view of this, future legislation should be amended to include this sector, which every month creates a new fashion and a new product in the marketplace. There are real jobs in the creation of music videos. This has been proved in America and is now being proved across Europe.
The reactivation of the Irish Film Board is a welcome move which should provide a boost to the local film industry, particulary in development and production funding. Everyone involved needs expertise to guide the industry in the right direction. I hope this idea could be extended to a music council where the opportunity for employment is tenfold and a whole new growth industry is available to young people. The great thing about the film and music industries is that they attract young people, school-leavers with magnificent ideas and small budgets. For instance, we have seen the Crying Game filmed on a small budget, yet receiving international acclaim. The quality and talent per head of population here makes us the envy of many nations.
I welcome the amendments to section 35 of the Finance Act, 1987, which should ensure a favourable climate for tax-based investment in Irish films, with consequential benefits for the economy and job creation. The expansion of Ireland's involvement in the European film industry through our membership of Eurimages is welcome. We are highly thought of because of the successes, though few, we have had in the last three or four years.
I also welcome the expansion of Ireland's involvement in the European film industry, particularly through the membership of Eurimages. We are very highly thought of because of our few successes in the last three or four years. How many people have seen the great receptions given to Irish talent at the film festival in Cannes? Film makers throughout the world have shown enormous warmth towards our expertise.
I urge the Minister to consider the following issues to further enhance his programme. A training plan should be prepared for the provision of skills needed to enhance the infrastructure of the Irish production sector but these skills cannot be provided without training. There is an enormous opportunity for hundreds of young people to be trained year after year in preparation for an industry which will definitely expand. An example is the achievements of the Australians over a short period. They have come from practically nowhere to be one of the top five states in the film industry. The same opportunity exists for us in Ireland. I know the Minister shares this outlook and I look forward to a programme to expand the industry and develop skills.
I also ask the Minister to consider the collection of economic data to ensure maximum benefits to the Irish economy. Plans should be prepared to market Ireland as a film production centre. We have only to look back over the years at the world's greatest producers, such as John Ford, who chose Ireland as a location, even though there was very little cultivation on our part of Ireland as such a location. As previous speakers have said, we are now in the world of the satellite. We see live everything that happens in the world. There are greater opportunities today in this industry than ever before.
I welcome the appointment of Niall Stokes as chairman of the Independent Radio and Television Commission. He has been involved in the music industry at many levels. He has a vast knowledge which will help him in the responsibility given to him by the Minister. He has a knowledge of the entire music industry. He knows the pitfalls. Everybody knows the pluses and kudos but I respect a person who has struggled and worked hard to keep his profession going. He can now lend his experience to legislation.
I look forward to the creation by him of an alternative radio station for Dublin, which has the biggest listenership. Legislation was enacted to provide alternative radio but we have never had such a radio station in Dublin. The existing stations — 98 FM, FM 104 and Radio 2 — provide wall to wall pop music and compete with each other. Radio 1 broadcasts chat shows from 8 a.m., with the exception of one programme in the afternoon, until 8 p.m.
Brendan Balfe.
How can a music business grow in such circumstances? The present situation is absurd. The Minister must take action immediately. A country and Irish traditional music industry exists. I welcome the establishment of Teilifís na Gaeilge. Our industry can grow by all our best artists displaying their musical talents. I ask the Minister to consider an alternative radio station for Dublin. No such station was provided. Perhaps Mr. Stokes and his commission would be asked to provide one. I welcome his appointment. Teilifís na Gaeilge will be a great opportunity for people to come to know the language but there is also an enormous potential to promote the country's music and market it abroad.
Ba mhaith liom mo chuid ama a roinnt leis an Seanadóir O'Toole más ceadaithe é sin.
An bhfuil sé sin aontaithe? Aontaithe.
Ní haon saineolaí mise ar chúrsaí craolacháin ach ceapaim gur cóir tréaslú leis an Aire ar an sár-obair atá déanta aige ar son Teilifís na Gaeilge. Obair fíor-thábhachtach atá idir lámha aige agus tá súil agam go bhféachfar siar amach anseo ar an mbeartas ar Theilifís na Gaeilge mar an beartas is éifeachtaí a thug Rialtas ar bith i bhfeidhm i leith na teanga ó bunaíodh an Stát.
Dá bhrí sin, déanaim comhghairdeas leis an Aire agus tá súil agam go n-éireoidh go geal le gach a bhfuil beartaithe aige i gcúrsaí craolacháin a chur i gcrích.
Is mian liom cur leis na focail atá ráite ag an Seanadóir Lee, mo chomh-oibrí atá in aice liom anseo. Tréaslaim leis an Aire as an sár-obair atá déanta aige go dtí seo san job atá aige. Fáiltím roimhe chuig an Seanad, mar ní raibh mé ag caint leis sa Teach seo cheana.
Tá dhá bhliain imithe ó luaigh mé don Seanad na deacrachtaí a bhain le bunú Theilefís na Gaeilge. Ag an am sin bhí argóintí agam leis an Aire mar go raibh geallúint tugtha do mhuintir na Gaeltachta agus do mhuintir na tíre go gcuirfí £500,000 ar a laghad, agus níos déanaí ná sin, £5 mhilliún, in áirithe chun an tseirbhís a bhunú. I gcónaí bhí an tAire i bhfábhar an mholta sin agus anois, nuair atá sé tagaithe isteach sa job, tá áthas orm go bhfuil an méid déanta aige agus atá.
Le déanaí bhí mé i rang scoile i nGaeltacht Chonamara do naíonáin a bhí díreach cláraithe inti. Ní raibh ach ceithre no cúig bliana sáraithe acu. Bhí an scoil seo i gceartlár na Gaeltachta ach is é an deacracht a bhí ag na múinteoirí ná nach raibh focal Gaeilge ag na leanaí agus iad ag tosnú ar scoil. Bhí fonn orthu bheith ag breathnú ar an teilifís ach ní raibh ach teilifís Béarla acu sa bhaile, agus mar sin ní raibh an tacaíocht ann don Ghaeilge.
Má táimid i ndáiríre i leith cúrsaí Gaeilge, caithfimid an tacaíocht sin a thabhairt do mhuintir na Gaeltachta agus dóibh siúd i dteaghlaigh tríd an tír go bhfuil fonn orthu dul chun cinn a fheiceáil in athbheochan na Gaeilge nó fiú amháin go dtabharfaí an Ghaeilge ar ais mar theanga labhartha nó go mbeadh taithí ag daoine óga ar an nGaeilge.
Tá an-job déanta ag an Aire, and I congratulate him on that. I also welcome the progress made in the film industry. I am not au fait with the arrangements being made under the Finance Act to encourage investment in this area. The Minister has brought a sense of openness and progress to the film industry. I recently saw an RTE programme on the advancement of this industry. A commercial opportunity exists which the Minister recognises. I encourage him to go forward with his plans to strengthen the film element of the broadcasting sector.
I wish to focus on the amendment to the motion calling on the Minister to ensure the renewal of the broadcasting Act, 1960 (Section 31) Order, 1992. We are all aware of the difficulties the Minister has in dealing with this and I do not envy him. I will not take the virginal approach that everybody but myself is wrong on this issue. I am opposed to the renewal of the order under section 31 and, therefore, oppose the amendment. However, I do not take from the value of the arguments put forward by people who take the opposite view. There is no self-righteous approach to this. Nobody is completely right or wrong. The arguments balance. I must confess that I have vacillated on many occasions as to whether opening up the airwaves will be effective. However, I have come to the conclusion that the strengthening of other legislation, such as legislation on incitement to hatred and so on, allows checks to be put on people who are speaking publicly or through the media.
My objection to section 31, and what finally convinced me to oppose it and encourage the Minister not to renew the order, is that it is a blunt instrument to deal with a complicated, sophisticated and complex situation. I do not think it is effective. It distracts the focus of discussion in the wrong direction. The strengthening of other legislation and other restraints which are put on people are far more important than simply a blanket renewal of the ban on members of Sinn Féin.
I am trying to avoid the old clichéd arguments of what an enlightened community we are, how we do not need to be told how to make up our minds and how we can listen to and balance arguments and come to the right conclusions. I could go through many of those arguments but there would be a doubt in the back of my mind about whether I really believed what I was saying. Too often, I have seen a demagogue sway an audience with fine words and emotional arguments.
One of the reasons I believe we need to address this issue, is that there is a huge level of ignorance about the North in the South. People do not know what is happening in workplaces, on the ground and in communities. People were shocked last week when they saw the palpable hatred coming from Windsor Park. The members of my organisation in the North say that this is there all the time on both sides. There is a lack of understanding of other points of view and positions which is encouraged and grows stronger in a culture where the answer is total censorship.
I have made this point before. I suspect that perhaps I have a different view to the Minister on this. I do not oppose censorship. I tried to have this argument here on various occasions and I have opposed, for example, Senator Cassidy's views on various satellite television programmes and have differed with the Minister on the elements of censorship. I believe that a democracy has the right to protect and defend itself against, for example, pornography. Similarly, incitement to hatred is not acceptable in a democracy. People who encourage racism, xenophobia or hatred should not be given a platform in a democracy.
Or violence.
Or violence. I would support legislation which would restrain and criminalise people who took such courses of action on the airwaves or elsewhere. I am not talking about giving people carte blanche. From what I believe and know about section 31 it is a blunt instrument. Taking these people completely off the airwaves does not do what we set out to do. I would like to have some of these people in the glare of publicity to deal with these issues. I would say to the Minister that it is not an easy decision to make, and whatever decision he makes, there will be criticism. This is a no win situation. The Minister will incur contempt if he does and abuse if he does not — he cannot win. That is not the way the decision should be made.
I appeal to people on both sides of the argument not be self-righteous about this. People have strongly held views, to which they are entitled. A decision must be made. I am saying that we need a more refined instrument than section 31 in order to remove from the airwaves incitement to hatred, violence, — as Senator Belton said — racism and xenophobia. For example, there are growing signs of neo-fascism in all parts of Europe at present which is just as worrying.
We need to look at this in a sophisticated way and I trust the Minister to come forward with a proposal which will deal with the issue in a precise and focused way, rather than the blunt instrument of section 31 which does not have a place in a democratic process. It denies the right to speak rather than simply keeping one particular group off the airwaves and makes martyrs of them. I urge the Minister not to renew section 31 but I also urge him to replace it with more precise legislation which will ensure that people may not incite to hatred, violence, racism or cultivate such an aura.
It is important that we are having a debate on arts, culture and the Gaeltacht because have taken part in various debates here in relation to enterprise and employment, where we talked about the importance in job creation of building on our strengths. Our creativity and what has been achieved in the arts by Irish people throughout the centuries is probably our greatest strength. If one was to ask somebody from any country with what they would associate Ireland, they would probably first say our writers.
Film is the most modern method of cultural communication and is what we are discussing this evening. However, we are as capable of being successful in the area of film as we have been over the centuries in the written arts. This debate is important in the context of employment and how the arts can contribute to job creation and the development of the image of Ireland generally. I would like to focus on that angle.
However, before doing so, I wish to speak about the amendment proposed by Senator Ross. I share the view expressed by Senator O'Toole that it is a difficult area and there are strongly held views on either side of the debate. I am not going to come down on either side this evening because the Minister is reviewing the whole area and I trust his judgment to make a decision on it.
Senator Ross said that there was greater acceptance of terrorists after atrocities. I think I am quoting him correctly because I wrote it down when he said it. I thought it was a most extraordinary statement. There is not greater acceptance of terrorists after atrocities, in fact, the opposite is the case. The peace movement, which is so strong at present in the North and South, was strengthened following the recent atrocities in the North. The situation is the opposite to what Senator Ross said — terrorists are being rejected following the recent atrocities. I will be speaking again tomorrow on the debate on Northern Ireland so I will not expand on this point now, but I think his statement was totally out of order and out of touch with reality.
The Senator has it wrong, he did not say that. He said interviewing their fellow travellers.
Senator O'Sullivan, without interruption.
In relation to section 31, the Minister is reviewing the situation at present. Senator Magner was right in saying that it is not helpful to ask us to vote on it until that review is completed and the various views and the fluctuating and changing situation have been taken into account. It is a knife-edge situation at the moment.
I would like to concentrate my remarks on the film aspect of the motion. Senator Cassidy already referred to this and particularly the re-establishment of the film board and its funding which is most important. As I said, there is great potential for job creation in this area. There is also potential for training — also mentioned by Senator Cassidy. I understand that there is a possibility of EC funding for training in the area of film.
There are many technological as well as creative aspects to film. We already have a record in many of those areas. Irish people have worked in Hollywood and other places and won awards for costumes, lighting and the other technological areas of film making. There are not just jobs for directors and actors. There are also jobs for people in areas in which we already have a certain amount of expertise but which could be developed further through training schemes.
I mentioned writers at the start. We obviously have an edge in the field of creativity. We have shown it in many areas in the past and have begun to show it in film recently. The success of Irish people in the area of film — actors, directors and technical people — is extraordinary, considering that it is such a new industry in Ireland and which attracted little financial investment in the past. The injection of funding will create huge potential in that area.
The visual media generally is becoming very popular. One has only to watch one's children playing computer games with video screens to see that young people are tuned into the mixture of the visual and the verbal and this is the area in which film works.
Senator Cassidy referred to the international links and mentioned Eurimages. There is also a body called Eureka Audiovisual and other bodies with which it is important that we be connected. The possibility of co-productions with organisations in other countries has much potential. It does not necessarily have to be in the fictional area of film making. There is much potential for development in educational film making and documentaries. It is important that distribution be examined. There is a network of film distribution around the world and if one is not in this network or if the films made in this country by Irish directors are not linked to the distribution system, one does not get the necessary exposure.
Hollywood has dominated the film industry but there is also a strong European — both eastern and western European — film making community. It is important that we play our part in that because countries such as France, Sweden and some eastern European countries have dominated. We have the potential to be one of the major players in that area. It is important that Europe counteracts the dominance of the American view of life and that the European perspective is given. The Irish film industry has a strong role to play there.
I noted that the work of the Film Board will be reassessed at various stages. The Minister mentioned this would be done after two years and again after five years. When discussing other legislation I have stressed the importance of reassessment Regardless of what we are setting up, we need to monitor it and ensure that it is doing the job it was set up to do. I welcome the fact that the work of the Film Board will be reassessed on a regular basis.
I welcome the setting up of Teilifís na Gaeilge, which was recently announced. The increase in the number of gael-scoileanna is one of the main reasons I welcome it. The gael-scoileanna have been very successful throughout the country and there is much demand for places in them. It indicates a concern on behalf of Irish parents to nourish the language in a way children will enjoy and from which they will benefit in contrast to the system many of us experienced where we saw Irish in school as a chore and something which was not of great interest.
This will introduce children to Irish at an early age in a way that is user friendly and which encourages children to be interested. It will result in a future generation who will genuinely tune into Teilifís na Gaeilge as a medium that is natural to them. One can see it in Welsh media and in the Breton system where they have a number of Breton total immersion schools. The Irish language is as much a national treasure as other matters. If we are going to maintain it we have to do it in a way that is effective, and I think Teilifís na Gaeilge will be effective.
I support the motion from my party and stress again that there is much potential for job creation particularly in the area of film but also in television.
I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion and I welcome the Minister. There is no doubt but that the Minister has brought a fresh approach to the area of arts, culture and the Gaeltacht. He has contributed to this area in a private capacity and much was expected of him when he became Minister. Thus far he has been seen to use his influence in the area of funding, his imagination in finding new approaches and his experience in developing the area. This motion could to a certain extent be premature backslapping, but on the other hand one could see it as an encouragement to the Minister to continue on the road he has chosen.
Local radio has highlighted aspects of rural life which previously were not brought to the attention of households and individuals in rural areas. A vast amount of knowledge, information and news comes through the medium of local radio. We could not expect national radio to deal with matters relating to each region. Shannonside-Northern Sound has done a fantastic job in broadcasting all forms of entertainment. Elderly people now have an opportunity to listen to items of local interest which were never broadcast on the airwaves in the past.
I realise that some local radio stations have fallen by the wayside, but those which have survived are strong, vibrant and enthusiastic in developing the medium of local radio. I ask the Minister in the future to give the necessary encouragement to local radio to develop, strengthen and broaden in all aspects of broadcasting. I have no doubt that local radio with national support can develop in the area of arts and culture which we are discussing tonight. Local radio can develop in that area by broadcasting programmes related to such matters. It is essential that local radio be encouraged and given extra funding to enable it to develop.
With regard to the proposed amendment, the Minister's feelings in the past on this issue are well known. People do not fully understand what section 31 means. They hear about section 31 and it is often seen or believed to be something different to what it is. It is no harm to analyse and evaluate why this measure was taken at the time. I am somewhat disappointed to hear Senator O'Toole, who represents the Irish National Teachers' Organisation, say that section 31 should not be retained. I wither to think of the educational approaches we have.
Section 31 is there to prevent access to the airwaves to people who do not have the interest or faith to pursue their ideas through the democratic system. We believe in democracy and the development of democracy. The cornerstone of any democracy is how that democracy allows its airwaves to be used. Let us face the fact that in any form of oppression, invasion or reign of terror the first item to be seized is control of the airwaves. This democracy, elected by the people, uses the airwaves for the common good and that is the issue that any Government and Minister must face.
It may be trendy to support the abolition of section 31. Perhaps, as the last speaker said, it is a deeply held conviction on the part of some people. I do not quibble with their ideas but we are talking about the common good, democracy and the retention of that democracy. That is why we are here. It is why we have the opportunity to speak in this assembly. We believe in democracy and we must honour the democratic system that gives us the opportunity of free speech. We believe in democracy and we do not believe in violence and its ways.
In conclusion, I wish the Minister well. I have known him for a number of years. Perhaps this support tonight may be a little premature or perhaps it will give him encouragement. I hope he continues to work on the areas he is currently developing.
Senator Honan wishes to speak in the two minutes that remain of Senator Belton's time. Is that agreed? Agreed.
I thank Senator Belton and welcome the Minister to the House. I congratulate the Minister on his efforts so far in his Department, his appointment of the Irish Film Board and the financing he has allocated to the industry. I also congratulate him on his announcement regarding Teilifís na Gaeltachta.
The film and broadcasting industries have huge potential for both direct and indirect job creation. The Irish film industry has gained a widespread reputation abroad and I would like to see this developed further. The members of the film industry have called for further funding because of the lack of technical facilities in this country. Some film companies have recently had to do some of their filming abroad because we did not have the technical facilities. I would be grateful if the Minister, who is favourably inclined in this regard, would increase funding to that area.
I am sorry that I do not have much time to speak on this issue. With regard to section 31, the Progressive Democrats are of the view that so long as Sinn Féin uses violence as a means of political change, we as a democratic society are entitled to operate sanctions against its members appearing on the radio and television services. It is a deliberate policy of censorship and exclusion to indicate our rejection of them. They have an opportunity to renounce violence and to join the democratic process. The Government has outlined this in relation to the talks on Northern Ireland and the same policy should be pursued in relation to section 31: that it should not be repealed until they lay down their arms. Then they will have the opportunity to be on our airwaves.
I know the Senator would like more time but I must call on the Minister.
I have listened with great interest to what Senators have said on this motion, which is a subject that is dear to my heart, and I am most grateful for the opportunity afforded by this House to discuss and review my initiatives in the broadcasting and film sectors since this Government took office less than a year ago.
I also thank the Senators who welcomed me to this House for their kind remarks. One Senator expressed it as unfortunate that I had not resigned by now and went on to make what I consider to be a scurrilous suggestion, and I quote: "The Minister's agonising has given tremendous succour to terrorism". That point is a disgrace to the Senator in question and, on reflection while I speak, he might wish to withdraw it.
With regard to the matters which are embodied in this motion, beidh a fhios ag na Seanadóirí go bhfuilimid ar tí céim mhór thábhachtach a ghlacadh maidir le cúrsaí craolacháin agus an Ghaeilge. Táim ag caint, dar ndóigh, ar dhearbhú an Rialtais maidir le bunú Theilifís na Gaeilge ar chainéal ar leith. Seo comhlíonadh ar dhearbhú tábhachtach atá sa gClár Rialtais Comhpháirtíochta maidir le Teilifís na Gaeilge á bheith á bunú mar thríú cainéal. Tá bunú an chainéil nua ar an mbeartas is tábhachtaí a rinne aon Rialtas ar son na Gaeilge, b'fhéidir, ó bunaíodh Radió na Gaeltachta bliain is fiche ó shin.
Léiríonn sé go soiléir go bhfuil an Rialtas seo, agus mé féin ach go háirithe, chun deimhin a dhéanamh de go gcothaítear agus go neartaítear an Ghaeilge mar theanga bheo. Beidh ar chumas tuismitheoirí a thaispeáint dá bpáistí gur rud beo, bríomhar, nua-aoiseach í an Ghaeilge and gur cuid dá saol laethúil í freisin. Tar éis an tsaoil caithfimid a admháil go bhfuil tionchar an-mhór ag meán na teilifíse ar ár saol agus ar ár n-iompar. Cé gur féidir leis cur isteach orainn ar go leor bealaí tá an deis againn anois leas a bhaint as an meán an-chumhachtach seo chun ár gcultúr agus ár n-oidhreacht féin a shaibhriú agus láimh a bheith againn in ár gcinniúint féin mar phobal.
Stáisiún ar leith a bheidh ann nach bhfuil a leithéid ar fáil cheana. Stáisiún náisiúnta a bheidh ann do phobal na Gaeilge ar fad, sa Ghaeltacht agus sa Ghalltacht, do chainteoirí líofa agus dóibh sin atá ag iarraidh a gcuid Gaeilge a fheabhsú. Ach beidh a cheanncheathrú i nGaeltacht Chonamara, rud a léiríonn an tábhacht a thugann an Rialtas seo don dílárnú agus don fhorbairt réigiúnach. Tá sé i gceist go mbeadh an stáisiún ag craoladh ar feadh trí uair a chloig sa ló ar dtús agus iarrfar ar RTE tuairim uair a chloig sa ló den méid sin a sholáthar.
D'fhéadfaí cuid den soláthar cláracha seo a chur ar fáil trí chláracha Gaeilge atá á gcraoladh faoi láthair ar chainéil RTE a chur ar an mbealach nua. Ach beidh cláracha breise ó RTE i gceist chomh maith. In aon chás níl sé i gceist go laghdódh na socruithe seo an fhreagracht atá ar RTE maidir le soláthar sásúil cláracha Gaeilge ar a chuid cainéil teilifíse féin. Níor laghdaigh bunú Raidió na Gaeltachta an fhreagracht seo i gcás Ghaeilge ar Raidió Éireann agus sé an cás céanna anseo é.
Tiocfaidh formhór na gcláracha don chainéal nua ó léiritheoirí neamhspleácha agus tá dóchas agam go gcruthóidh an borradh nua san earnáil seo ar a laghad 250 post nua.
The transmitter and link infrastructure for the new service which will be built to the highest broadcast standards will be constructed on a phased basis over a three year period. Phase one of the construction will be designed to provide coverage to 60 per cent of the population and in all the Gaeltacht areas. I regard it as important that the service should be available to a significant proportion of the population from the outset in recognition that the service is indeed a national one. The first phase of the construction process will take at least 15 months to achieve and one must bear in mind that this forecast assumes that, for example, the weather on the exposed transmitter sites will be kind to us. The new headquarters from which programming will originate will also have to be constructed.
In the pre-transmission phase, there will be much more than construction activity. It will be necessary to put in place the organisation structure for the new channel so that staff can be recruited, the ethos and character of the station developed and, most importantly, so that programming can be commissioned. Senators will appreciate that one cannot launch a television service without a stockpile of programmes.
In accordance with the commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Government, the capital cost of establishing the station will be met from the excess cap money earned by RTE. The running costs will be met from Exchequer sources. Contrary to recent newspaper speculation, an increase in the television licence fee is not being contemplated at present. I have seen reports in newspapers that are close to some Senators here that a licence fee increase of £20 or £10 would be introduced to fund Teilifís na Gaeilge. I want to make it clear to the House that no such increases are contemplated for the funding of the new service.
The Programme for a Partnership Government gave the following commitments in the general areas of broadcasting and film:
Our policy will be to ensure that Irish TV and Radio Programming is of the highest quality and that it remains the preferred choice of a majority of Irish viewers by:
—Repeal of the "cap" contained in the 1990 Broadcasting Act, thus enabling RTE to improve the range and quality of the public service broadcasting that it can offer to the Irish public;
—Provision for access to broadcasting for the independent sector, thus enabling them to increase output and jobs in the audio-visual industry and giving them a firm home base to enable them to compete internationally;
—Measures to ensure that commercial local radio broadcasting remains viable;
—Ensuring that Irish advertisers have access, at a reasonable cost, to a strong domestic TV advertising medium.
With regard to the film sector, the programme recognised the importance of the film industry in Ireland both in terms of its immediate employment potential and also its enormous downstream benefits for the arts in general, to which many Senators have referred. Specific proposals were written into the programme to provide a coherent approach to the development of the industry. These included: a White Paper on the Film Industry to identify the areas of greatest potential and the support measures needed; consideration of the reintroduction of the Film Board; consideration of increasing and extending existing tax incentives for the film industry; and creation of a new regulatory framework for broadcasting, which will include opportunities for the independent production sector to feed into the national station.
These commitments, given less than a year ago, have formed the basis of my programme during the first year of my Ministry and I can report to Senators that all targets have been met on schedule. Indeed, such was the urgency of the task I faced that, drawing on the comprehensive recommendations of the Special Working Group on Film, I reactivated the Irish Film Board without recourse to the intermediate stage of publishing a White Paper. The needs of this industry were then and are now well known and with initiatives such as those I have mentioned, I intend to ensure that it receives the resources and support it deserves.
The main initiative I have taken has been the re-establishment of the Irish Film Board which will primarily focus on the all important area of the provision of development or "seed" money for film projects. This has been underpinned by the amendment, with the full co-operation of the Minister for Finance, of the tax regime as it applies to the industry, involving a substantial raising of the limits for section 35 relief, the extension of section 35 relief to individuals and the waiving of the 75 per cent Irish production test in the case of co-productions where at least 10 per cent of the production work is carried out in the State.
Of course no initiative is of value unless it is backed by adequate funding and to this end I succeeded in having a Supplementary Estimate for the Irish Film Board passed, making £1.145 million available to the board in 1993. In addition, I will shortly be bringing before the Oireachtas an amendment to the Irish Film Board Act, 1990, which will increase the aggregate amount which I, as Minister, can advance to the board from £4.1 million to £15 million.
While I am, of course, anxious that the measures which I have taken will be for the benefit of those industry practitioners who have operated under very difficult conditions for many years, I am equally anxious that the measures will also benefit the many talented and committed men and women who are graduating from our dedicated educational institutions each year. These initiatives must serve to bring along a new generation of film and television practitioners who will produce projects of quality and of interest to the cinema going and television viewing public, both at home and abroad. I intend to function as a catalyst for ensuring the emergence of this new generation.
I have concentrated my remarks so far on the four main policy initiatives which I have taken and which represented the main recommendations in the report of the Special Working Group on the Film Production Industry. But the report contains other recommendations which I will be addressing. For example, I have approached the responsible Ministers and established a formal high level committee comprising all the State-sponsored bodies which serve the industry. I see this committee as being essential in putting structures in place which will ensure an appropriate response from these agencies, particularly our training agency, as economic activity in the industry picks up and develops. I would also see this committee having the function of promoting our country more aggressively as a location for film making.
Another recommendation I am implementing refers to the payment of Ireland's international contributions in relation to film. These international obligations include Eurimages, the EC Media Desk and Eureka Audiovisual, but may also involve contributions to a proposed English Language Cinema Plan. The Supplementary Estimate which I have obtained for the Irish Film Board this year includes a provision for Ireland's contribution to Eurimages and Eureka Audiovisual. In a demonstration of co-operation between key State agencies, RTE pays part of Ireland's contribution to Eurimages. Apart from this, the board will be taking on all such international commitments for the future.
Among other recommendations of the report which I hope to address in the future are the question of co-production agreements with countries such as Australia. France and Germany, and the question of the development of further flexibility within the industry itself which would require the approval of both sides of the industry.
One of the reasons the report of the Special Working Group on the Film Production Industry was and is of such value is that it represents the outcome of a healthy partnership between industry practitioners on the one hand and the State and semi-State sectors on the other. I believe it is crucial that this partnership be continued if the economic and social objectives which have informed my policy initiatives in relation to the industry are to be achieved. I also wish to underline the fact that the Special Working Group on the Film Production Industry identified significant economic benefits and employment potential for and from the Irish film industry.
In particular a report undertaken by Coopers and Lybrand revealed that there are upwards of 1,000 people permanently employed in this industry, not including the approximately 670 unionised free lance workers or the 1,400 actors, actresses and extras in the State not the employees of RTE.
An indicator in this report suggested that for every £1 million spent on film and television production, some 50 fulltime job equivalents are created for one year if one is speaking of documentaries, 48 if one speaks of features. The existence of so-called seed money injection is of vital importance to ensure the success of the industry. The injection of, say, £13 million by the Irish Film Board representing, let us be conservative, approximately 15 per cent funding of film projects — more usually it is closer to 10 per cent — could generate over £86 million of film production activity or 4,300 jobs. Such positive and tangible benefits will be developed to the full. I am confident that such benefits will flow from the initiatives built into the Broadcasting Authority (Amendment) Act, 1993, where RTE will be actively seeking out new independent projects to benefit from a fund dedicated for such purposes.
I need to repeat what I said at the first meeting of the new Irish Film Board. I contend that the obstacles which hindered the growth of the film and audio-visual industry in this country have now been removed and the film community has acknowledged this. It is now the responsibility of the industry itself to respond to these favourable conditions and to deliver on their commitment and their promises in submissions to the special working group. This is the second opportunity for the industry to contribute significantly and transparently to the economic, social and cultural development of this State.
The report of the special working group envisages an interim assessment of the Irish Film Board after two years and a full assessment after five, after which the board will be discontinued unless it is proved a worthwhile exercise in terms of stimulating employment and creating value added for the economy. I intend to implement this recommendation which I know will not be necessary should it happen.
Turning to broadcasting matters, Senators will recall that during the debate in the House on the Broadcasting Authority (Amendment) Act, 1993, I had the opportunity to share with you to some degree the shape of my thinking with regard to broadcasting developments both in its own right and in its relationship with film making. It is useful to take this opportunity to take stock of the developments I mentioned and indicate the direction I propose to take in the future.
To begin it is worth recalling the situation which faced us all when I assumed responsibility as Minister. The cap on RTE imposed by the provisions of the Broadcasting Act, 1990, was causing fundamental damage to broadcasting and broadcasters, to advertisers and advertising agencies and to the independent television programme production sector. Jobs had been lost and more were under immediate threat in all these areas. When responsibility for broadcasting was transferred to me in January of this year I quickly realised that the removal of the cap was a matter of the utmost necessity. Equally, despite the spectacular success of Irish film makers in recent years, there was a danger that the sector would stagnate without a stable domestic base on which to build further international success. It was imperative that the role of RTE as the national television broadcaster in developing the independent film industry be formally recognised in statute and that the opportunity created through the success achieved by the film makers be grasped quickly. Out of these immediate pressures I formulated the Broadcasting Authority (Amendment) Bill, 1993, which had two essential elements — the capping provisions were repealed and RTE was required to make specific amounts available for the commissioning of programmes from the independent sector.
As I explained to the House during the debate on the Bill, the legislative framework for broadcasting in this country is over 30 years old and is in need of a careful review but the urgency of the problems caused by the cap did not afford me the time to address them in the context of a fundamental review. Accordingly, the Broadcasting Authority (Amendment) Act, 1993, should be seen as a first step in the comprehensive review of broadcasting legislation and structures upon which I am now engaged. The Act simply delivered on two of the key commitments in the Programme for a Partnership Government and at this time it is necessary to carry out the comprehensive review that the larger subject demands.
I have spoken about Teilifís na Gaeilge and indicated that it will broadcast initially, I hope, for three hours a day. This will leave us, as Senator Magner and others said, with an invaluable resource of available airtime for the rest of the day. This will give me the opportunity to consider in the context of my review a wide range of public service broadcasting options with which, for a variety of reasons, RTE cannot deal or only on a restricted basis. I pay tribute to RTE for fulfilling its role as a successful public service broadcaster, a success achieved in the face of perhaps the stiffest competition in Europe.
One of the commitments in the Programme for a Partnership Government related to the independent broadcasting radio sector to which Senator Belton in particular referred. I intend to address this issue in the course of my review. However, let me say now that I am not convinced of the argument which says give us a share of the licence fee and everything will be all right. I recently appointed a new Independent Radio and Television Commission and I hope that body will be able to provide assistance to the independent sector within the constraints of existing legislation to enable it to develop and prosper further pending completion of my review. I hope the new commission will be able to address imaginatively the issue of community radio without undue delay. The absences of such services in general represents a significant gap in the totality of our broadcasting services. Sa chomhthéacs seo, is breá liom go bhfuil Raidió na Life, an raidió sainspéise Gaeilge do chathair Bhaile Átha Cliath, i mbun craolta le dhá mhí nó mar sin agus bhí áthas ar leith orm mar Aire tús a cur le cláracha an stáisiúin.
To turn to the future, it is no exaggeration to say that the future represents a major challenge to regulators and public service broadcasters. As we all know the revolution in telecommunications and broadcasting technology has changed the broadcasting map for every. The old argument that the number of broadcasting services must be small because of the limited availability of frequency spectrum is largely becoming irrelevant. Satellites, fibre optic cable, digital technology and signal compression mean that in the foreseeable future there will be the possibility for hundreds of radio and television programmes beaming across Europe. It is even suggested that in the near future the old copper wire that provides telephone service to our homes could provide video on demand. One must be concerned that this multiplicity of choice will erode the financial base of traditional public service broadcasters like RTE.
The reality is that for RTE to survive it must complete with an ever increasing range of television stations, most of which are entirely commercial with no roots in the traditional public service ethos of broadcasting. Even when classic broadcasters such as RTE and the BBC and UK independent terrestrial stations were the only services available, concerns were expressed at the rise of cultural imperialism given the apparent preponderance of bought in American programmes which were appearing on our screens. These days we are not so much in danger of being force-fed with the values and culture of other countries. The real imperialists are now conglomerates who would wish to sell us lifestyles based on the acquisition of their goods and services.
Broadcasting is much more than an industry; it is a carrier of values with social impact. In the ideal world purveyed by such as I have described, the television viewers are not there to be challenged but to be reassured that everything is all right with the world so long as they have the right car, are the right weight and wear the right clothes. The success of a programme is determined only by the audience rating it achieves and its ability to sell particular products. Viewers are surveyed, researched, chased and segmented so that programmes can be produced to formulae designed to get no negative reactions from the viewer. RTE as a public service broadcaster must continue to be regarded as a mainstream broadcaster by its viewers if it is to be able to provide an antidote to this type of programming and if it is to remain relevant to Irish audiences.
In this context the outcome of the current negotiations in relation to the conclusion of the general agreement of trade and services in the context of the audio-visual sector could be critical. I fully support the approach that guarantees the European producers and broadcasters adequate space for European programming on our television screens. I am also anxious to ensure that the various national and European Community initiatives that are now in place to stimulate a vibrant European audio-visual industry should not and will not be put at risk and that Europe should have the freedom to develop further these initiatives if it is considered appropriate.
I am not advocating subsidy of the European audio-visual sector for subsidy's sake. However, Europe has to have the space to catch up. The facts speak for themselves. In 1991 some 71 per cent of American exports of audio-visual programming came into Europe, of which nearly 60 per cent went to the European Community. In the same year the market share of films from the USA in Community cinemas reached an average of over 80 per cent.
With regard to television, it was estimated that 54 per cent of television drama transmitted by European broadcasters originated in the USA. In 1992, American audio-visual revenues in Europe reached $3.66 billion. European audio-visual revenues in the USA in the same period reached $288 million, that is less than one-twelfth of American revenues. American broadcasters are the only ones in the world that regard dubbed material as unsuitable for transmission to their audiences. I give these figures not in the sense of any "USA bashing", to be somewhat colloquial, but rather to illustrate the extent of the problem that has to be satisfactorily addressed in the current negotiations.
In the light of the prospects for television channel choice, whatever about television programme choice, I see a need for some radical thinking in Europe as a whole in order to satisfactorily address this problem for the future. It may be necessary to beat the opposition at their own game and for public service broadcasters to adopt the new technology to this end. It is not beyond the bounds of possibility to imagine that a pan European satellite channel programmed by public service broadcasters might be established. Provided the orbital position of the selected satellite was right and cable operators across Europe could be persuaded to take the service, I see no difficulty with this. The service, I imagine, would be free to them and this compendium of public service broadcasting would be available to viewers as easily as the existing satellite services.
With regard to the amendment put down in the names of Senator Ross and Senator Manning, I have listened attentively to their views. The question of renewing or not renewing the current statutory order under section 32 of the Broadcasting Authority Acts is being considered by the Government. I have not had a kneejerk reaction to the issue of renewal or non renewal of the order. I publicly committed myself to a review. I undertook that review and I have almost completed the fine detail of the review. I have presented all the options in the documents which I am submitting to the Government and the Government will decide. The current order remains in force until 19 January 1994. It would be presumptuous of me this evening to anticipate what the considered view of the Cabinet will be in relation to this matter.
I thank the Members who spoke and for their many kind remarks. Senator Magner, in introducing the motion, I have thanked already. I will be addressing all the issues raised by Senators. In my preparations for the expenditure of considerable sums in structural funding in film, I hope to address the issue of training and skills. I will also take up the practical issues of perhaps extending the same exciting regime as has been established in film into aspects of the music industry, because it is in this area that we have had so much good, sustainable and imaginative employment for creating.
I have expressed my personal regret that somebody would suggest that because I was doing what I said — reviewing the history of section 31 — I was, and I quote, "by my agonising giving tremendous succour to terrorism". People will know that that has never been my belief. I am the Minister with responsibility for broadcasting. On this issue I have to consider what is good for broadcasting and the balance between broadcasting and the criminal law, the points of intersection between the criminal law and broadcasting. After careful consideration I have to bring my views to my colleagues in Cabinet. I am not operating in any tempestuous way. I do not propose to seek to convert those who have suggested that I should have resigned or that it is a pity that I had not resigned earlier this week. I find it regrettable that dear and good friends, who represent, as I said, immensely historic and intellectually valuable constituencies, have turned to this kind of personal abuse which I regard as offence rather than intellectual argument. That is their right and I am far more liberal than they.
I thank Senator Cosgrave for his demand. The Senator will appreciate that the very people who have just criticised me would, if I interfered to bring back "Head to Toe"— Dr. Conor Cruise O'Brien, a distinguished predecessor of mine — would be quick to point out that I was interfering in RTE. I prefer to have responsibility within the broadcasting legislation.
Regarding all the points made by Senators, I will consider these. I welcome the views of those Senators who spoke for and against Telifís na Gaeltachta. Telifís na Gaeltachta is about cultural regeneracy. It is about cultural diversity at a time when we are threatened by cultural domination. It is about rights. There is a philosophical argument, a cultural argument, a linguistic argument and a practical argument for it. We will have an exciting new channel beyond the three hours to do things we have not yet been able to do in relation to broadcasting.
I also thank all of the Senators who spoke about particular issues, which, I assure them, I will examine, because there are issues of local radio and there also issues in relation to quality and programming. I appreciate the attention of the House, and my apologies for exceeding my time.
Unfortunately, the debate will conclude at around 8.5 p.m. so we will have to balance our time. Senator Calnan will conclude. I call on Senator Henry. The Senator has approximately three minutes.
I welcome the Minister to the House. I support the introduction of Telifís na Gaeltachta and I believe it is a real effort towards bilingualism in this country rather than the token efforts that have been made to date. I am pleased to note from the Minister's remarks that he is going to make use of the time on Teilifís na Gaeltachta for other programmes. I am not asking for programmes as Béarla, but as we have the best linguists in the country watching at that time perhaps we could use the channel to encourage people in other European languages by simple programming such as news bulletins in French, Italian, Spanish and German in the course of an evening.
Under the heading of broadcasting, may I ask the Minister — and this is something I have raised with him previously — to urgently consider obtaining an agreement from the British Government to have RTE 1 and Network 2 transmitted to those parts of the North of Ireland where they cannot be received, especially in north County Down and in County Antrim. Nothing is worse than dealing with this faceless group down here. I believe it is a most important concept to bring forward, because lack of knowledge of our culture down here is a major problem with people in that part of the North of Ireland and I believe that it would be a good idea if they got a look at us.
Regarding the film industry, I say to the Minister that encouraging this burgeoning film industry is wonderful and we have had notable successes. However, miracles do not occur without planning and I suggest that the Irish Film Board would be well advised to endeavour to concentrate on producers because one must get the whole act together. We have trainee producers, but it is an area where learning by doing is essential. There is a good European film industry. I strongly agree with the Minister's remarks about the whole American culture which has taken over much of the television and film production and transmission within Europe. I urge that we should make contacts with European film producers and I ask that the Irish Film Board make this a high priority. It is a complex business, but I believe that this learning by doing is essential. I would be grateful if the Minister would take this up with the Irish Film Board.
I call on Senator Calnan. The Senator has approximately seven minutes to conclude.
I am pleased that Senator Henry gave me a breather because, as usual, the Minister's address was so all embracing, comprehensive and thorough that it is difficult to follow him. However, I will try to do so.
I compliment the Minister on his work in the arts, culture and broadcasting sector of Government. He has brought to such work a dedication which we can see here tonight in his address, from which it is evident that he is fully in control of the situation. I am pleased that the vast majority of Senators complimented the Minister on his work.
Regarding the Irish Film Board, I am pleased to see the role that the Minister is bringing about the revitalisation of the board, because there is tremendous opportunity for Irish workers in this sector. In my area two films have been made in the last 12 months, in the villages and towns of Skibbereen, Castletownshend and Tragumna and, more recently, in Castletown and Kinneigh. Not only was there work available locally but local talent was expressed, which is all to the good. The costumes made for the film also came in useful when President Robinson visited Dunmanway yesterday to celebrate Dunmanway 300.
The Senator looked particularly well.
Thank you. Yesterday's celebrations were broadcast live by both RTE and local radio. This was good to see. They both did a fine job.
I welcome Teilifís na Gaeilge. As a former teacher I hope there will be many school-based programmes which would be of assistance in the educational sector. It should also be of benefit in the Gaeltachts in my area, Béal Átha an Gaorthaigh agus Oileán Cléire. Oileán Cléire is the only island off the coast of County Cork that is still a Gaeltacht. The main language on seven other islands in that area is English and consequently Údarás na Gaeltachta does not handle their affairs. The broadcasting sector should record the way of life on those islands, because we often do not appreciate island life.
I commend the cultural work of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. It should figure prominently on Teilifís na Gaeilge, because the work it has done for Irish dancing, song and culture is without equal. Set dancers from my town, Dunmanway, have travelled to Ballycastle to represent Munster in all-Ireland competitions on several occasions. This can be further developed by Telefís na Gaeilge.
Visitors from Moyle District Council in the northern part of County Antrim attended the Dunmanway 300 celebrations yesterday. They also met the western council of Cork County Council to discuss the hope of twinning. They said they could not receive RTE 1 or Network 2 in the Glens of Antrim. Because of the set dancing and other Irish cultural activities in that area, they asked if something can be done about that. I am glad the Minister is here this evening to hear this request. There may be problems with international links but it would be of great benefit to these people if they could receive the stations. Perhaps Teilifís na Gaeilge could be made available to them also.
I thank the Minister again for his comprehensive reply. He is always welcome in the Seanad.
When is it proposed to sit again?
It is proposed to sit again at 10.30 a.m. tomorrow.
