Virgin Media Television has announced the signing of a new 10-year national free-to-air Commercial Television Licence, granted by Ireland’s new media regulator and development agency, Coimisiún na Meán.
The broadcaster was awarded the new 10-year contract following a licensing process commenced by An Coimisiún’s predecessor, the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland. It sees the continued provision of the national free-to-air channels Virgin Media One and Two.
Paul Farrell, Managing Director of Virgin Media Television said, “The award of this broadcasting licence is a further significant milestone in Virgin Media Television’s journey as Ireland’s leading independent commercial public service broadcaster. It recognises the achievements of our entire team across over a quarter of a century of public service broadcasting.”
“As the recipient of this licence, Virgin Media Television has reaffirmed our dedication to the principles of public service media and our continuing commitment to broadcasting excellence. We believe that public service media should be a powerful force for good in society, responsible for enlightening, empowering, and entertaining audiences in equal measure.
“Our presence as a public service broadcaster supports media plurality where the trustworthiness of news and information is critical for the quality of our democracy and the integrity of our public conversation. We are also a major investor in creativity in Ireland. This is underpinned by the dedication, energy and enthusiasm of our people, their skills and talent, and their excellence in production and broadcasting.
“Virgin Media Television is the only public service TV broadcaster that provides local trusted content to every household in Ireland at no cost to the State or the viewer. In a market that is under continued pressure from new media and changing consumption habits, our ability to grow audiences and provide free trusted content is based on our agility and innovation.
“We will continue to invest in original Irish content and presentation, news and current affairs, documentaries, drama and entertainment, while also shining a light on under-represented communities.
“We’re excited about this new chapter for Virgin Media Television and are grateful to Coimisiún na Meán for trusting us with this responsibility. We look forward to a more open debate and understanding of the role other media outlets play in providing public service content, and equally how the funding model needs to be reviewed to be more equitable”.
Commenting, Broadcasting Commissioner, Celene Craig added: “Virgin Media One and Two are valued components of Ireland’s media landscape, enhancing choice and diversity for Irish audiences with home-produced and international content in areas such as news and current affairs, entertainment, drama, sport, factual and lifestyle.
“I would like to congratulate Virgin Media Television on completion of the licensing process and wish them every success under their new contract term.”
Click here for more information about Coimisiún na Meán.
