The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI) has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan of €3 million of funding specifically set aside for news and current affairs in the independent radio sector.
Minister O’Donovan has asked Coimisiún na Meán to include a ring-fenced measure worth €3m specifically for independent radio under the News Reporting Scheme. This will support the provision of high-quality news and current affairs content to listeners in greater depth and breadth.
John Purcell, Chair of IBI, said the industry is very grateful to Minister Patrick O’Donovan and his Department officials for working constructively with the sector on this much-needed support for the vital news and current affairs services provided in independent radio stations.
Mr Purcell said the funding is very welcome in the independent radio sector where journalists, current affairs presenters and producers are at the front line in the battle against fake news and misinformation.
