Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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108. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she has received a report (details supplied) which was set up to examine reform of the TV licence fee, which was expected in Q1 2023; the timeline for the publication of the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23435/23]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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When considering the report of the Future of Media Commission, Government decided not to accept the recommendation that the TV licence be abolished and replaced with Exchequer funding. Instead, Government decided that the current system should be reformed and enhanced to provide a more equitable and sustainable funding model.

Government established a Technical Working Group to examine potential reforms, including how the licence fee might be reformed to reflect changes in technology and viewing habits. The Group was also to examine other issues such as  the current TV licence database, the scope of liability, improvements and efficiencies to the collection and payment process for TV Licences, and possible changes to enforcement procedures to decrease the number of TV Licence evaders. The Group paid particular attention to the need to provide secure and sustainable funding for public service media and public service content providers.

The Group commenced its work last September and has submitted their report to me.  I am currently considering the detail of the report and will bring the matter to Government as soon as practicable for decision and publication.