Radio, like television, is a broadcasting medium for the transmission and reception of communications and associated services. As a technology led service, past service providers, such as RTE, were given the responsibility to produce and supply a universal range of broadcasting services throughout the country. Broadcasting is a powerful force for influencing, shaping and directing public opinion in areas such as citizenship and democratic participation in society. This is recognised throughout the relevant legislation from the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926 to the more recent Broadcasting Act 2001.