Irish TV Licensing Revised

It's all change for broadcasting in the Irish Republic as the country's Communications Minister Eamon Ryan has announced a range of changes to the current arrangements for television licensing.
Minister Ryan revealed the proposed measures at the launch of a new website which will allow Irish businesses and householders to purchase a television licence online.
Minister Ryan said: "My overall aim is to dispel a negative view surrounding TV licensing in Ireland. This new service makes buying a TV licence easier and is a more cost-effective method of collection and I commend An Post for the provision of this progressive payment option.
Individuals will be given the option of paying a fine (capped at one third the value of the licence fee i.e. €53) along with proof of purchase of a licence within 21 days.
The Minister said: "This will provide a proportionate alternative to prosecution. It is designed to increase compliance, avoid unnecessary court appearances and reduce the workload of the courts. In this way, the vast majority of people who pay their television licence will not have the burden of paying for others," he said.
These changes will be brought about through the forthcoming Broadcasting Bill and Mr Ryan commented: "Television licensing is necessary for the maintenance and development of quality public service broadcasting.
"These changes make it easier for the individual to buy a licence, allow people to avoid the courts while ensuring significant fines for persistent evasion.
"I am confident this is the right approach that will ensure greater compliance at less cost to the State," concluded the Minister.
See: www.tvlicence.ie
(BMcC)