Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2006
99 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount of surplus funds currently available to the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland; the manner in which it is anticipated to spend such funds in the context of the development of the broadcasting service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6627/06]
View answerI assume the Deputy is referring to the broadcasting funding scheme operated by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, BCI. The Broadcasting (Funding) Act 2003 provides that the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland prepare a scheme or schemes for the funding of grants to support certain television and radio programmes. The EU Commission notified Ireland in November 2005 of its decision that it considers the scheme to be compatible with the relevant provisions of the EU treaty. I subsequently wrote to the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland approving the scheme entitled Sound & Vision. I understand that the first round of applications under this scheme has taken place.
The amount payable annually under section 4(2) of the Broadcasting (Funding) Act 2003 is equal to 5% of net receipts of broadcasting licence fees. The amount available under the scheme now stands at in excess of €25 million.
100 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when there will be a decision on the amending of the list of designated sporting events under the Broadcasting Amendment Act 2003, especially in relation to the upcoming 2006 Ryder Cup; when he expects the review to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6727/06]
View answer127 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has had discussions with the Ryder Cup promoters-organisers, television interests or other sporting authorities or agencies with a view to meeting the expressed wishes of various interests in respect of broadcasting rights for the Ryder Cup; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6703/06]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 100 and 127 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 85 of 21 February 2006.
