Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2006
171 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has discussed the various options available in regard to the future development of both the public and private broadcasting services with particular reference to the structures he has in mind and their likely impact on the industry in general; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6633/06]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy core policy objectives for the development of the broadcasting sector are set down in my Department's statement of strategy, 2005-2007. This strategy was drawn up following consultation with key players in the industry. My objectives are: to create an environment that encourages the maintenance of high quality Irish radio and television services by both independent broadcasters and RTE; to secure a viable future for high quality public service broadcasting in the Irish market; and to seek to retain access to a range of high quality programming in analogue and digital form, on a universal and free-to-air basis.
Irish viewers will be best served by a broadcasting environment that includes a public service broadcasting presence, together with private broadcasters.
