Joint Committee on Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport and Media to discuss challenges facing broadcasting sector, and safe and respectful working environment in the arts

The meeting at 1.30pm in Committee Room 3 of Leinster House will be split into two sessions:

• 1.30pm-2.55pm – The Challenges Facing the Broadcasting Sector as a Result of COVID-19 with representatives of CRAOL – Community Radio Ireland and Independent Broadcasters of Ireland.
• 3pm-4.30pm – A Safe and Respectful Working Environment in the Arts with representative of FairPlé, MiseFosta and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Niamh Smyth said: “Like all sectors, local and community radio has been heavily impacted by COVID-19, in terms of revenue, competition from online and social media, and in the ability to make programmes due to public health restrictions. The sector has been assisted by Government supports through the Sound and Vision Fund and the Committee looks forward to discussing these and related matters with CRAOL and the IBI.

“For our second session, the Committee will discuss how the Arts sector provide a safe and respectful working environment for all involved in the sector. No one should face discrimination, bullying, sexual harassment or violence in any form. We welcome this opportunity to discuss this important issue with representatives of FairPlé, MiseFosta and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.”

The Joint Committee on Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sport and Media has 14 Members, nine from the Dáil and five from the Seanad.

The meeting in Committee Room 3 can be viewed live on Oireachtas TV.

Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.