Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 511: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the annual date and process for reviewing the cost of the television licence; if the licence charge will be reduced due to the fact that the rate of inflation has declined by more than 6% in the past year; if so, the date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36757/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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My Department has carried out a detailed review of RTÉ's performance each year, which has formed the basis of any adjustments that have been applied to the television licence fee.

My Department is completing the reviews of RTÉ's performance in respect of 2007 and 2008. When I receive the completed reviews I will consider if a change to the licence fee is warranted.

The Broadcasting Act, 2009 provides for a change in the process of reviewing RTÉ performance. Section 124(2) of the Act provides that the newly established Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) shall, on an annual basis, carry out such reviews in the future. It further provides for the BAI to prepare and submit a report on its findings to the Minister before 30th June each year. The BAI, on the basis of a review, will recommend to the Minister an annual licence fee modification. The calculation for this modification will take into account the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and any adjustment recommended by the BAI.