Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 November 2019
223. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when he plans to move the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill 2019 to Committee Stage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49230/19]
View answerThe Broadcasting Amendment Bill 2019 provides for:
- the part funding of the BAI through TV licence receipts so as to reduce the levy burden on broadcasters,
- the creation of a new funding scheme that would allow the granting of bursaries to journalists in local or community radio stations,
- the BAI to retain part of the levy to fund its working capital requirements and allows them the scope to determine exemptions and deferrals to the levy.
In addition, I have received Government approval to bring an amendment at Committee stage that will allow TV licence collection to be put out to public tender. I intend to seek Government approval for the drafting of this Head before year end, with a view to introducing the necessary amendment at Committee stage early in the New Year.
