Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2017
77. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of his plans for the television licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13038/17]
View answerI recognise the important part that public service broadcasters play in our democratic society. The provision of stable and adequate funding is essential to ensuring the continued delivery of their role in this regard. I am very much aware, however, of the challenges that face the existing TV Licence system, including the current unacceptable levels of evasion. While the rate has fallen from 15.3% at the end of 2013 to the current rate of 13.75% it is still very high.
In that context, my Department has been working with An Post and RTÉ on an ongoing basis so that all steps are being taken to ensure the system is working as effectively as possible. Measures such as marketing campaigns, more evening and weekend inspections and appointment of additional temporary Inspectors are just some of the initiatives that have been utilised to enhance sales and improve compliance rates.
I am currently considering proposals for the amendment of the Broadcasting Act 2009 including a legislative amendment to provide for the tendering of Licence fee collection. I intend to bring these proposals to Cabinet shortly. In the interim, my Department is liaising with the Office of Government Procurement with a view to issuing a Request for Information in the next few weeks to ascertain what the market might be able to deliver in relation to licence fee collection. The outcome of this process will inform any proposed tender that may be issued once the necessary legislative amendment is in place.
I have also requested the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment to examine the longer term issue of the future funding of public service media. As the Deputy may be aware, the Committee is currently considering this issue following a period of public consultation and stakeholder engagement. I look forward to receiving their report in due course which will help inform future funding policy for public service broadcasting.
