John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

The licensing of local radio is a matter for the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, BCI, which carries out its functions under the Radio and Television Act 1988. In this regard, the BCI is charged with the orderly development of sound broadcasting services and with ensuring the appropriate development of the sector. Independent radio and community radio undertakings have all performed well over the past decade. It could be concluded that the overall framework and structure is suitable as is and should not be significantly altered. However, it is the case that services and markets will change over time and it is likely that a static approach to the development of the radio licensing framework will not, in the long run, serve the listener well.

With this in mind, in late 2003, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources initiated a review of radio licensing in Ireland. This review culminated in a study by sectoral experts entitled the Ox report. The report indicated that additional radio licensing is possible in Ireland, given the availability of spectrum. The report raised some concerns regarding the viability of some local radio franchises given their market size. The report also considered issues around ownership and control of radio stations and the need for balance in this regard. Options with regard to financial charges such as spectrum levies and royalties on radio stations using scarce spectrum were also discussed. In developing the legislative proposals which will establish the broadcasting authority of Ireland, the Minister will consider the findings of the Ox report and developments in the local radio sector generally.

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