Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 October 2010
241 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has had any discussions with service providers with a view to increasing the availability of subtitling with particular reference to meeting the needs of those with hearing difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38047/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Audiovisual Media Services Directive requires, inter alia, that Member States shall encourage media service providers under their jurisdiction to ensure that their services are gradually made accessible to people with a hearing disability. These provisions are transposed by the Broadcasting Act 2009 and the European Communities (Audiovisual Media Services) Regulations 2010. Under Section 43 (1)(c)(i) of the Broadcasting Act 2009, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) must prepare and, from time to time, revise rules with respect to the specific steps each broadcaster is required to take to promote the understanding and enjoyment by those who are deaf or have a hearing impairment of programmes transmitted on any broadcast service provided by the broadcaster. In relation to on-demand services The European Communities (Audiovisual Media Services) Regulations 2010 provides for the development of codes of conduct by media service providers, in cooperation with the BAI and other relevant bodies, to address this requirement.
