Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 July 2013
21. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide funding to non-profit community radio stations from the new broadcasting charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35030/13]
View answerIn terms of public funding, the Broadcasting Funding Scheme represents an already significant source of support for non-profit community radio stations. This Scheme is currently funded by way of a set proportion of net television licence fee receipts and I do not expect this position to change with the introduction of the new Public Service Broadcasting Charge.
The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) is assigned responsibility under Part 10 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 for the administration of the Broadcasting Funding Scheme which aims, inter alia, to develop local and community broadcasting by providing funding for the provision of high quality, diverse and innovative programming by community broadcasters.
In addition, the BAI operates the Community Broadcasting Support Scheme, which is a development fund that allows community radio stations to conduct evaluations of their activities. The scheme provides funding for stations to carry out key review work to assist with their overall performance and to build capacity.
Community radio stations in Ireland also receive funding from various other sources, including funds derived from donations, advertising and sponsorship.
