New Broadcasting Bill To Shake Up RTÉ

The long-awaited Broadcasting Bill that could shake up RTÉ is due to be published on Wednesday morning.
The new legislation will establish the first broadcasting authority to oversee the RTÉ network and would replace the current Broadcasting Commission.
The new watchdog will act as an independent regulator for RTÉ, independent television channels and the radio sector.
A 200 page bill has been drawn up to create the body, which will be known as the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI).
The BAI will operate independently and will get its funding mainly from a levy paid by all broadcasters in the country.
Aside from the creation of the body, a key element of the bill includes new restrictions on junk food advertising and a right to reply for viewers forcing broadcasters to air a clarification or apology to anyone found to have been wronged.
This provision is supposed to provide a low-cost remedy to people whose reputations have been damaged by incorrect facts in a broadcast, without having to pursue the matter through the courts.
(DW/JM)