Dublin, 6 April 2007
Noel Dempsey, T.D., Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, today announced the appointment of Indecon, International Economic Consultants, to conduct the external annual RTÉ television licence fee adjustment review for the second year in a row. Indecon was selected following a full eTenders/OJEU Public Procurement process. The review will commence immediately.
Minister Dempsey said: “As part of the Government’s Programme of Public Sector Broadcasting Reform, the Government decided that the RTÉ licence would be reviewed annually. This is the fourth such review undertaken by independent external advisors.
Any changes to the licence fee in 2007 will depend on RTÉ’s performance during 2006, including RTÉ’s output vis a vis its Statement of Commitments, and its ability to implement structural reform”.
Indecon’s report is expected to be presented to the Minister by the middle of June 2007. This review will inform any decision regarding a licence fee adjustment for 2007.
Minister Dempsey added: “On its establishment, it is his intention that the annual review for future years will be conducted by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland”.