Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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51. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to ensure that the television licence fee is collected in full; and the discussions he has had with RTE regarding the provision of the licence fee. [38569/16]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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I recognise the important part that public service broadcasters play in our democratic society. The provision of stable and adequate funding is essential to ensuring the continued delivery of their role in this regard. I am very much aware, however, of the challenges that face the existing TV Licence system, including the current unacceptable levels of evasion.  While the rate has fallen from 15.3% at the end of 2013 to the current rate of 13.75% it is still very high.

In that context, my Department has been working with An Post and RTÉ on an on-going basis so that all steps are being taken to ensure the system is working as effectively as possible. Measures such as marketing campaigns, more evening and weekend inspections and appointment of additional temporary Inspectors are just some of the initiatives that have been utilised to enhance sales and improve compliance rates.

My Department is also currently examining a number of additional actions that might be taken with the aim of strengthening the system including legislative amendment to provide for the tendering of Licence fee collection.