Ireland

[IE] Broadcasting Authority allocates EUR 5.9 million under Broadcasting Funding Scheme

IRIS 2018-6:1/24

Ingrid Cunningham

School of Law, National University of Ireland, Galway

On 10 April 2018, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) announced the allocation of EUR 5.991 million to projects under its broadcasting funding scheme, “The Sound & Vision 3 Broadcasting Funding Scheme.” The scheme is operated under section 154 of the Broadcasting Act 2009, which requires the BAI to “prepare” a funding scheme to support a number of objectives, including new television or radio programmes including feature films, animation and drama on Irish culture, heritage and experience, programmes to improve adult or media literacy, programmes which raise public awareness and understanding of global issues impacting on the State and countries other than the State, and the development of archiving or programme material produced in Ireland (for previous schemes, see IRIS 2017-7/23, IRIS 2016-6/17 and IRIS 2015-4/13).

The funding was allocated to 126 radio and television projects following a detailed assessment process, with just over EUR 5.368 million allocated to 33 television projects, while some 93 radio projects will benefit from funding of EUR 622,000. A total of 231 applications seeking total funding of almost EUR 17 million were made in this funding round of the scheme. The number of applications and the amount of funding sought was “slightly lower” than the previous rounds, with documentary by far the most popular format for which funding was sought by applicants in radio and television. The BAI stated that the applicants comprised a good spread of broadcasters associated across commercial, community and public service radio and television.

Commenting on the announcement, Chief Executive of the BAI Michael O’ Keefe stated: “The implementation of the funding rounds under Sound & Vision 3 assists the BAI in achieving its mission to foster diverse and culturally relevant content for Irish audiences. It is also a key support in delivering on the BAI strategic themes of Promoting Plurality & Diversity, Enhancing Innovation and Sectoral Sustainability, and Empowering Audiences” (see IRIS 2017-4/25).