Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 October 2023
127. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Finance if he is considering additional tax measures in budget 2024 on information and communication companies, including social media and digital streaming companies, to fund public broadcasting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43150/23]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that it is a longstanding practice of the Minister for Finance not to comment, in advance of the Budget, on any tax matters that might be the subject of Budget decisions.
Nevertheless, I can state that one of the key outcomes of the work of the Future of Media Commission was that reform of the current funding model is necessary to provide a more sustainable basis for supporting public service media content. Following its consideration of the Commission’s report, Government established a Technical Working Group to examine the options for reform of the TV licence system. While consideration of this matter was paused by Government in light of the controversy surrounding lapses in proper governance and controls at RTÉ, Government remains committed to the necessary reform. However, pending further consideration by Government, it is not appropriate to speculate on the basis for any reformed funding model.
