Broadcasters could be judged on their news and current affairs record when applying for new licences, under changes proposed by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.
The BAI today launched a consultation process for its draft Media Plurality Policy and revised Ownership and Control policy.
Under Ownership and Control, it is proposed that the number of stations that can be owned by one body remains the same, at 25%, and that other criteria around audience share, the nature of the stations owned and other communications media controlled will also be taken into account when change of ownership is proposed.
The applicant’s news and current affairs programming will also be evaluated to see if current practices support plurality and independent impartial journalism.
It is also proposed that the character, expertise and experience of individuals or entities applying for a new licence be taken into account.
The BAI's stated aim is to facilitate a mix of voices, opinions and sources of news and current affairs, the production of culturally relevant content for Irish audiences, the fostering and promotion of quality Irish language programming and the fostering of a media landscape that represents and is accessible to the diversity of Irish society.
Members of the public and stake holders are invited to read and comment on the consultation documents on the BAI website www.bai.ie, and submissions are invited before the end of January 2019.
