The Broadcasting Bill 2008, which will replace all previous legislation on broadcasting services, has passed all stages in the Dáil.
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The Bill sets up a Broadcasting Authority as a regulator of content.
It replaces the Broadcasting Commission as well as the Broadcasting Complaints Commission.
The Bill also amends legislation regarding public service broadcasters and the allocation of public funding.
It modernises and revises the legislation relating to RTÉ and TG4 and sets up the framework for two new public service broadcasters - an Irish film channel and Oireachtas channel.
The Bill introduces a number of proposals to protect the interests of viewers and listeners.
It includes a 'right of reply' mechanism whereby individuals who feel their reputations have been damaged may have this corrected in a further broadcast.
There is also provision for the establishment by RTÉ and TG4 of audience councils to represent the views of listeners and viewers.
The Bill proposes some new approaches in relation to codes and rules for broadcasting in Ireland, in particular relating to food advertising aimed at children.
A number of appointments to the boards of the new authority will be made following the recommendation of the Joint Oireachtas Committee dealing with broadcasting matters.
The Bill now goes to the Seanad for final approval to late amendments to the text.
