Press

TG4 welcomes new Broadcasting (Amendent) Bill 2019

02.08.19

TG4 has welcomed the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill 2019 which has been published today by Richard Bruton TD, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment.

Speaking today after the announcement TG4 Director General, Alan Esslemont, says:

“We are looking forward to fully examining the provisions in the bill, but TG4 welcomes the emphasis that the Minister places in his statement on the important role that Public Service Broadcasting plays, particularly in the context of a rapidly changing news environment and in light of the challenges that the ever developing digital landscape throws up. It is extremely important that the content of public service broadcasters is kept front and centre in this evolving marketplace.

“TG4 has always been innovative, with  our ‘Súil Eile’, or alternative view of broadcasting in Ireland. This has been enabled by having a highly talented, committed team, working hand in hand with the independent production sector and other broadcasters. The training initiatives announced by the Minister today are also to be welcomed.
“In our five year strategy we outline how effective TG4 is at delivering value to citizens whilst providing public service broadcasting of the highest standard. The strategy also focusses on developing the creative economy, particularly in the regions, as well as nurturting new talent on a continuous basis.

“At present most of TG4’s funding comes directly from the Department and we are seeking an increase of €7.2m annually on the current provision, to create 150 new jobs and provide an additional 111 hours of top quality television for viewers. The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland and the Oireachtas Joint Committee for the Irish Language, Gaeltacht and the Islands have very strongly endorsed the strategy.
“We are hopeful that the Bill will further strengthen the sector, to help create even more world class content as well as providing great value for money and TG4 is well positioned to fully participate in this very important work”.