Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent)
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210. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will allocate €1.2 million to fund a radio station (details supplied) to secure an FM licence and increase funding for TG4, to support the Irish language and its promotion among young people, as requested by an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37939/24]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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In 2022, the former Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (now Coimisiún na Meán), together with Foras na Gaeilge, commissioned a research project to ascertain the level of interest in a youth focused Irish language radio station.

There were two separate phases to the research project. Firstly, the views of a national representative sample of 15 to 34 year olds were sought regarding their interest in and openness to listening to an Irish language station. The second element was to ascertain the views of Irish language speaking communities regarding their audio and media habits, the type of audio content (both English and Irish) that they engaged with, and perceived gaps in Irish language content provision.

The resulting report, published in February 2023, found that on a national level the youth market is highly engaged with audio content and radio is still the leading format among audio content providers. However, the target audience of 15 to 34 year olds is becoming increasingly non-linear as they move to digital content consumption and content such as podcasts.

Coimisiún na Meán are currently undertaking a feasibility study on a potential Irish Language Youth Radio Service. This will include, but will not be limited to, identifying cost-effective models and options for the potential establishment and provision of said service, as well as the necessary related sectoral impact and public value assessments.

As I have previously stated, I would like to see this type of service being put in place, if possible. However, it would not be appropriate for me to pre-empt the outcome of this ongoing process. It is also important to note that any such new service would require the appropriate licence. Coimisiún na Meán, as the independent broadcasting regulator, is solely responsible for the licensing of independent radio broadcasting services in Ireland. As such this is a process in which in which I, as Minister, have no role.

With regard to funding for TG4, the broadcaster has been provided with substantial additional resources under my term as Minister, with a total increase of €19.8m in funding being provided over the lifetime of this Government thus far. This is a 53% increase on the level of funding TG4 had in 2020.

Part of the additional funding provided to TG4 in 2023 and 2024 was to support the launch of Cúla4, a dedicated Irish language children's channel. The service, which began operations in September last year, provides a children’s news service, entertainment and education content, drama and Irish animation. Discussions on annual funding allocations for 2025 are ongoing and it would not be appropriate to comment prior to the Budget.