Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2013
288. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection if those who are currently exempt from paying the television licence fee will also be exempt from paying the public broadcasting charge; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44651/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra289. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department held discussions with RTE and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources prior to the reduction in the annual transfer to RTE in respect of the television licence. [44652/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 288 and 289 together,
Budget 2014 provides for a reduction from €59.17 million to €54.17 million in the payment made to the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (DCENR) in respect of television licences provided for some 410,000 customers in receipt of the household benefits package. This budget measure will have no negative impact on any of our customers who will continue to receive their free television licence as part of the household benefits package.
My Department did not hold any direct discussions with RTÉ as funding for the free licence scheme is made to DCENR, not to RTÉ. The proposal to reduce the payment to DCENR was discussed and approved by the Government as part of the normal pre-budget deliberations.
The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has made proposals to introduce a new Public Service Broadcasting Charge to replace the current television licence and which is designed to increase the revenue base and reduce evasion. This charge is the subject of public consultation at present. Officials of my Department are in discussions with his Department as to how vulnerable customers will be dealt with in any new arrangements.
