A new funding scheme developed by the Broadcast Authority of Ireland (BAI) to support the archiving of cultural broadcasting material has been approved by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte TD.
A new funding scheme developed by the Broadcast Authority of Ireland (BAI) to support the archiving of cultural broadcasting material has been approved by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte TD.
It is hoped the scheme will encourage an integrated approach to the archiving of programme material in Ireland. It will aim to safeguard Ireland’s broadcast heritage by helping to develop suitable storage processes for material; encouraging broadcasters to assist in restoration and storage of materials. It is hoped by doing this to make the public
more aware of the history of broadcasting in Ireland and provide them with easy access to
materials for the future.
The scheme will be financed through a percentage of the Broadcasting Fund paid for by the TV license fee and the BAI are expecting to start the application process in the second quarter of 2012. Commenting on the approval Bob Collins Chairperson of the BAI said, “The BAI welcomes the approval of the Broadcast Archiving Scheme. We are confident that the Scheme will be of benefit to all who share an interest in preserving Irish culture, history and experience. The Scheme was developed through engagement with a wide range of broadcasters and expert groups. We look forward to receiving applications to the first round of the Scheme in the coming months.”
The BAI are also looking for input from stakeholders and the public in relation to the drafting a new code of fairness, objectivity and impartially for news and current affairs programming in Ireland.
The Authority is launching the six week public consultation process, starting with a meeting that will take place on Wednesday 1st February 2012 at 11am in the Aston Suite, Room no. 2 in the Alexander Hotel, Dublin 2. BAI are seeking broadcasters, journalists and individuals to attend the meeting.
The meeting will be chaired by BAI Chair Bob Collins and Chief Executive Michael O Keeffe.