Damien English T.D., Minister for Housing and Urban Renewal, and Fine
Gael T.D. for Meath West has said local radio in Meath West will
greatly benefit from the reduction in the broadcasting levy approved
by cabinet this week.
“Irish people love listening to their local radio stations. They play
an essential role in bringing our communities together, keeping us
informed and entertained. I am very pleased at the reduction in the
broadcasting levy approved by Cabinet this week.
“This reduction will reduce the broadcasting levy by up to 50% and we
would expect that smaller community radio stations will be exempted
altogether. This is a major boost for our local and regional
independent radio stations, such as LMFM in Meath, Midlands Radio in
Westmeath, and neighbouring Shannonside/Northern Sound Radio which
also enjoys a listenership in this region.
“Local Radio stations like our local LMFM, as well as Midlands Radio
and Shannonside/Northern Sound provide a great local service and are
an intrinsic part of our local community. Local radio keeps us
connected with what’s going on in the locality here in Meath West.
“Regulated broadcasters currently pay between €30,000 and €200,000 a
year under the levy, and it has been a key commitment of Fine Gael to
reduce it.”
Reacting to the announcement, John Purcell, Chairman of the
Independent Broadcasters of Ireland also welcomed the reduction.
“The proposals accepted by Cabinet today show that Fine Gael and
Independent Government Ministers have not only an understanding but
also an appreciation of the valuable public service contribution of
independent radio stations throughout the country.
“The commitment to scrapping the burden of the broadcasting levy on
independent radio stations was included in the Fine Gael election
manifesto and confirmed by Minister for Communications, Denis
Naughten.”
Minister Naughten said “The sector needs to be nurtured and supported.
I want to provide more flexibility for the Broadcasting Authority of
Ireland in how it applies the levy to all broadcasters including
community and hospital radio stations.”
ENDS
DAMIEN ENGLISH T.D. 