12 May 2017
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Cork Senator Tim Lombard
Cork based Fine Gael Senator, Tim Lombard, has welcomed the announcement this week that an initiative to reduce the broadcasting levy was approved by cabinet.
“Local radio stations are loved by their Irish audiences; they play an essential role in bringing our communities together, and in keeping us informed and entertained. I am very pleased that a reduction in the broadcasting levy was approved by Cabinet this week.
“Regulated broadcasters currently pay between €30,000 and €200,000 a year under the broadcasting levy, and the commitment to repeal this tax on independent radio stations was included in the Fine Gael election manifesto.
“The approved reduction will decrease the broadcasting levy by up to 50%, and we would expect that smaller community radio stations will be exempted altogether. This is a major boost for our local and regional independent radio stations.
“Our Cork radio stations provide a great local service and are an intrinsic part of our community, crucial in keeping us connected with what’s going on in the county.
“The sector needs to be nurtured and supported. Our local Irish radio stations contribute greatly to our communities, so I am delighted to see fulfilment of the election promise made regarding the broadcasting levy.”
