Irish government proposes to set up new Broadcasting Authority

Irish Communications Minister Eamon Ryan has welcomed the announcement by the European Commission on the closure of its investigation into the compatibility of the public funding arrangements for RTÉ and Teilifís na Gailge (TG4) and EU State Aid rules. This followed negotiation between the sides.

Minister Ryan said “The positive outcome of the negotiations confirms the absence of any inappropriate state aid and provides for more transparency in the framework for public funding of the Public Service Broadcasters RTÉ and Teilifís na Gailge (TG4) in Ireland. I will bring forward proposals for a comprehensive new Broadcasting Act, which will set up the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI). It is my intention that this new Authority will carry out the necessary supervisory functions in relation to RTE and TG4 that have been decided in conjunction with the European Commission.

The Minister indicated that, where appropriate, implementation of various aspects of the agreement reached would be encompassed within the forthcoming Broadcasting Bill. Transparent accounts and enhanced controls will be introduced and there will be safeguards to ensure that public service broadcasters carry out their commercial activities on market terms. The Minister thanked the Commission for the cooperative approach adopted in the negotiation and resolution of this case.

(Source: Government of Ireland)

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• EU closes investigation into RTÉ, TG4