Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2014
462. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the broadcasting charge (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7745/14]
View answerI am currently considering the results of a public consultation process on the introduction of the proposed Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) Charge. The consultation was based on the outcome of a Value for Money (VFM) Review on the charge, which was conducted by my Department last year. The VFM and public consultation will inform proposals on the shape of the charge which I will bring to Government in due course.
It is my intention that the PSB Charge will be an efficient and cost effective replacement for the TV Licence. At present the only grounds for exemption from TV Licence payment is eligibility for the Household Benefits Package. I do not foresee the introduction of a new and complex system of exemptions from PSB Charge payment for any reason, including individual views on content.
