Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 299: 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 view 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. [34711/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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Under the Radio and Television Act 1988 and the Broadcasting Act 2001, the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, BCI, has statutory responsibility for decisions in regard to the licensing of independent radio services. This responsibility includes determining the number of licences to be issued, the nature of such licences and the related franchise areas. The BCI is an independent statutory body and I have no function in regard to licensing decisions.