Gerard Murphy (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 91: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether there is scope for a greater number of local independent radio stations; his further views on whether the licensing regime should be amended to allow for a greater number of stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3571/05]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 281: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether there is scope for a greater number of local independent radio stations; his further views on whether the licensing regime should be amended to allow for a greater number of stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3943/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 281 together.

The licensing of local radio stations in Ireland is a matter for the independent Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, BCI, and one in which I have no direct role. Under its statutory obligations, the BCI determines issues such as the type and number of licences in any region.

However, I wish to maintain a suitable legislative framework for local radio licensing in Ireland. In this regard, my Department carried out a review of radio licensing in Ireland last year. The review consisted of an extensive independent report by Ox Consultants and a public consultation. Over 50 submissions were received as part of the consultation and a public seminar on the topic of radio licensing was held last autumn. My Department will produce a report on the consultation and I will consider proposals for suitable legislative reform with regard to radio licensing.

The Ox report indicates that additional radio licensing is possible in Ireland, given the availability of spectrum, and that an increased number of channels may be available in the future through digital audio broadcasting. The report does raise some concerns regarding the viability of some local radio franchises, given their market size. The report also points to demand for special interest and dedicated format radio stations in Ireland.

While I will consider new legislative proposals that would improve the overall licensing framework, I am clear that decisions about the actual nature of the services to be licensed and who is to be awarded licences, should remain the remit of an independent body.