Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 February 2024
362. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media how the Exchequer funding model for public sector broadcasting could operate in Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6068/24]
View answerThe media sector, and public service media in particular, plays a vital role in our society, supporting cultural development, societal wellbeing, and the functioning of our democracy. As such it is important that is supported by a sustainable funding model.
The Future of Media Commission had recommended Exchequer funding, however, Government decided instead to establish a Technical Working Group in order to assess potential options to reform the existing TV licence system. High level discussions on the Group’s report had commenced but it was necessary to pause a final decision until the two independent expert advisory committee reports on RTÉ are submitted.
In recommending Exchequer funding, the Future of Media Commission also set out safeguards that can be put in place in order to maintain media independence and minimise risk of political interference, such as:
• Multi-annual funding levels established and recommended by the independent regulator, Coimisiún na Meán;
• A stronger role for An Coimisiún in setting performance targets for RTE and TG4 – these are currently set by the broadcasters themselves with review and analysis performed by An Coimisiún
I am committed to delivering on this overdue reform and I am continuing discussions with relevant senior Cabinet colleagues.
