Statement from Minister Catherine Martin on funding for news and current affairs on Independent Radio welcomed by the sector.

The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin T.D., that she is moving ahead with a new scheme to support news and current affairs on independent broadcasting services.

The announcement, which followed the Budget on Tuesday, recognises the unique role of the independent radio sector, and the vital Public Service Content it provides to 2.5 million listeners all over Ireland daily, and the contribution this makes to democracy and society.

The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland believe that the ringfenced measures which were announced by Minister Martin are very positive.  They will be of significant help in supporting the maintenance and development of the news and current affairs services provided by our 34 independent radio stations.

The sector is grateful for the engagement by the Minister and her Department and for their decision to provide much-needed support for the news and current affairs services in independent local, regional and national radio stations as part of the €6 million announced funding.  It is very positive that there has been recognition that additionality of coverage was a significant issue for our sector, and that there is a commitment to addressing that, and ensuring funding for core news and current affairs.

The sector looks forward to working constructively and without delay with Minister Martin and her Department and with Coimisiún na Meán, to ensure that independent stations can access this funding as soon as possible.  It is urgent that it is available to support the essential services which stations provide and which are so valued by our listeners.

IBI members and all those involved in the sector thank the Minister and her officials for this recognition of the services the sector provides. In addition to the support of Ministers, a broad range of public representatives were also thanked for their support of the sector in relation to this important issue.