Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 April 2010
352 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his preferred options for the future development of the public and private broadcasting sectors; the degree, if any, to which the economic situation is expected to affect the development of the industry in the short to medium term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17028/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the provisions of the Broadcasting Act 2009 the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) is charged with, inter alia, providing a regulatory environment that is stable and predictable and that will facilitate the development of a broadcasting sector in Ireland that is responsive to audience needs. The BAI is also charged with stimulating the provision of high quality, diverse and innovative programming by commercial, community and public service broadcasters and independent producers.
I recognise the difficult challenges that broadcasters are facing in the current economic climate. Obviously, I support the provisions of the Broadcasting Act as the correct policy framework for the development of the Broadcasting sector. I will continue to work with the BAI and other stakeholders, private and public, to progress the objectives in the Broadcasting Act for the sector.
353 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of occasions he has met representatives of both the private and public broadcasting sectors since June 2007; the context of such meetings; the issues under discussion; if he received submissions in respect of the future utilisation and purpose of the licence fees; his preferences for the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17029/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the context of the development of broadcasting policy in the past three years my officials and I have had cause, on a regular basis, to meet with the various interests that comprise the broadcasting sector including but not limited to commercial broadcasters, public service broadcasters and independent producers. I have also received submissions on a range of issues, including licence fees.
I am not in a position to inform the Deputy on the precise number of occasions I have met with representatives of the public and private broadcasting sectors. These discussions have related to various aspects of broadcasting policy and policy implementation. I take full account as appropriate, of such discussions and submissions in the formulation and implementation of broadcasting policy.
