Fine Gael Communications Spokesperson, Simon Coveney TD, has tonight proposed to annul the controversial levy on broadcasters until such a time as the new Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) can prove it represents value for money.

The levy is being discussed in the Dáil this evening with Deputy Coveney proposing the annulment of the new levy in order to require the new BAI to undertake a budget review and cost cutting process (see Motion at end).

“Fine Gael strongly opposes Government attempts to hike up charges on broadcasters when many are struggling to survive.

“Businesses across all sectors are doing their best to cut costs to keep falling revenues in check as credit lines are tightened. Fine Gael will not support the issuing of a blank cheque for any Government agency, not least a new agency such as the BAI who should be representing transparency and best practice in terms of regulation.

“Tonight we are proposing the annulment of the broadcasting levy motion in the Dáil in order to require the new BAI to undertake a budget review and cost cutting process. In contrast, the only effect the Government Motion will have is to sink independent broadcasters with even more jobs losses in the private sector.

“No Government agency should be immune from transparency in its budget or from seeking the maximum value for taxpayer’s money.”

Ends
Note: Text of Fine Gael Amendment

To delete all words after “Dáil Éireann” and substitute the following: “annul the Broadcasting Act 2009 (Section 33) Levy Order 2010 [S.I. No. 7 of 2010] to allow the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) to review budgetary expenditure for 2010 and satisfy Dáil Éireann that the concerns of the broadcasting sector are being addressed through the delivery of value for money in the new BAI structures.” — Simon Coveney.