Government Urged To Protect The Future Of Local Radio

The future of local and regional radio stations can't be guaranteed without state funding to support broadcasters.

That's according to the head of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland John Purcell, who've warned an Oireachtas committee that there is a funding crisis.

Irish radio listenership is currently experiencing record levels, but the sector has witnessed a serious downturn in revenue.

Stations in the independent sector command 68.6% of all time spent listening to Irish radio during prime-time hours.

Addressing the establishment by the Government of the Commission on the Future of Media, which is scheduled to produce a report next Summer, Purcell said that while the IBI welcomed the initiative and looked forward to engaging with the Commission, the IBI has serious concerns about the timeframe involved to implement necessary change.