The independent radio sector received a boost today when Communications Minister Denis Naughten made a number of significant announcements.
He's due to sign off on legislation to reduce the levy fee for independent radio stations and to relax advertising caps.
Minister Naughton is the first minister to push through such legislation for the Independent sector.
"Radio is really worth fighting for" Some great tips from Helen and we're feeling inspired. The Future of Radio is Bright. @ChooseRadioIE #RDIrl @RadioDaysIrl @RadioTodayIE @skillnetcourses @IBIreland @BAItweets https://t.co/zmQl9togkG pic.twitter.com/GBG58VJKP3
— Learning Waves (@LearningWaves) February 22, 2018
Speaking at Radio Days, he said with four out of five people listening to radio everyday, it's important to support the people behind the scenes to make it happen.
"We've bucked the trends globally - particularly in digital economy, a very connected digital economy - where people are still listening to radio on a daily basis.
"I, as minister, have acknowledged that by actually introducing a reduction on the levy.
"And it's my ambition now - once I get approval from the joint Oireachtas Committee, which I hope to have next week - to see the introduction of an up to 50% reduction on the levy across the independent broadcasting sector".
