merrion street

At the official opening of the “Radio Days” two day conference in Dublin hosted by the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI), the Minister for Communications Denis Naughten TD announced his intention to amend section 41(2) of the Broadcasting Act 2009. Section 41(2) of the Act sets an upper hourly limit of 10 minutes of advertising on commercial radio stations. The Minister’s amendment will remove this hourly limit ensuring greater flexibility for broadcasters particularly during live broadcasting.

“Since being appointed Minister for Communications I have become acutely aware of the difficulties being faced by all broadcasters as a result of falling advertising revenues. Last year I brought forward legislative amendments which would reduce the burden of the BAI levy by up to 50% on all broadcasters and to introduce a financial bursary to promote quality journalism in local, commercial and community radio stations. I believe some of the restrictions faced by commercial radio stations are outdated and in need of reform. As a result, I am today announcing my intention to seek Cabinet approval to amend section 41(2) of the Broadcasting Act 2009 to remove the hourly limit on advertising for commercial radio stations which would give commercial stations greater flexibility,”

confirmed Minister Naughten.

The legislative proposals are currently undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny by the Joint Oireachtas Committee since May 2017. Minister Naughten told the ‘Radio Days’ conference delegates that he has

“been assured the pre-legislative scrutiny stage will be finalised next week which means he can start detailed drafting immediately to ensure passage through the Oireachtas as quickly as possible.”

Minister Naughten’s opening speech to Radio Days can be accessed here.