Galway East TD and Minister for Community Development Seán Canney has welcomed further support for local and regional radio by his Department.
Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment Richard Bruton TD has asked the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland to repurpose €2.5 million from the Sound and Vision Fund to help local radio stations during the COVID-19 crisis.
Minister Canney said: “This additional support for local radio complements the suspension of the broadcasting levy for six months which will also help with local radio finances.
“Local radio plays a vital part in distributing news and information in our communities. For some people it is their main link with the outside world and it is particularly important now when so many people are having to stay at home.
“I am delighted that my colleague Minister Bruton is urging the BAI to issue the call for funding as soon as possible and for applications to be processed with a minimum of delay.
“I am also pleased that the Minister has asked for €750,000 to be allocated to community radio in 2020.”
Local radio stations are also entitled to support of up to 70% of wage costs announced by the Government earlier this week, as well as a range of forebearance measures announced by Revenue and the Banks.

For more information, contact Minister Canney on 086-2513639
March 27 2020