Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 September 2018
623. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to establish a media fund to support independent journalism similar to other EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37848/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIndependent journalism plays a vital role in our society and in supporting our democracy by providing access to accurate, high-quality and relevant information to citizens throughout the country.
The Deputy is aware that my remit does not extend to the funding of all media, but that I have specific responsibilities in this regard in respect of the broadcast media. In recognition of this important role and the challenges faced by many local and community radio broadcasters, I am proposing, as part of the Broadcasting Amendment Bill 2017, to introduce a new funding scheme to offer bursaries to journalists working in these stations. The Bill is currently being drafted by Parliamentary Counsel.
Separately, the European Commission, as part of its initiative to tackle online disinformation, has announced that it will introduce measures to support quality journalism across Member States. The Commission has proposed to Member States that a specific allocation should be made in the fund under the Creative Europe Programme 2021-2027 to support enhancing a free, diverse, and pluralistic media environment, quality journalism and media literacy. The fund, which is under negotiation at the moment, falls within the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
