The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland has signed the final three ten-year contracts for three radio services.
The services are Sunshine 106.8FM, a niche music-driven service for Dublin City and County; Highland Radio, a local, broad-format service operating in the franchise area of North Donegal; and Ocean FM, the local, broad-format service for Sligo/North Leitrim/South Donegal. The award of contract for each service was the subject of a competitive licensing process, as provided for under the Broadcasting Act 2009.
Speaking at the contract signings last week, Bob Collins, Chairperson of the BAI, said: “Today’s signings mark the completion by the BAI of the significant process of relicensing 24 commercial radio services all across Ireland. These licensing decisions have significant consequences for both broadcasters and audiences alike. The needs and interests of audiences, coupled with ongoing changes in how listeners access content have resulted in an increasing challenge for broadcasters to be aware and agile in their approach to changes in listenership patterns. I am confident that Sunshine 106.8, Highland Radio and Ocean FM will continue to meet these challenges and to find enduring resonance with their listeners over the term of their new contracts. The BAI wishes Sunshine 106.8FM, Highland Radio and Ocean FM continued success.”
The BAI was represented at the contract signings by the Chairperson, Bob Collins and Michael O’Keeffe, Chief Executive.
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