Govt. Assessing Free-to-Air Sports Proposals | The Irish Film & Television Network

Communications Minister Eamon Ryan announced recently that he has appointed expert consultants to examine the proposal on the revision of the list of sporting events available as free-to-air. Following a month-long tender process, Indecon International Economic Consultants has been chosen to study the proposal and prepare a report on the Review of Designated Events and the Designation of Events of Major Importance to Society under the Broadcasting Act 2009.

Under the terms of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive and the Broadcasting Act 2009, Minister Ryan is obliged to review the designated list of sporting events of public importance that should be made available on free-to-air television.

Two public consultations have been carried out on this issue - one in 2009 and one more recently, which concluded on 4th July. The Minister said of the move that: “This contract is to research, analyse, and evaluate the socio-cultural, economic and financial aspects and impacts of the designation of events of major importance to society, for which the right of a qualifying broadcaster to provide coverage on free television services should be provided in the public interest.”

He added “It is my intention to use the report in finalising my consideration of the many complex issues involved in the designation process and I will be asking all key stakeholders to assist the consultants in whatever way possible so that all relevant information and views are taken fully into account.”

The consultants are due to report back to the minister in early October.

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