The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) has today (Wednesday, 12th August) announced details of its Licensing Plan for the remainder of 2015. The plan comprises a mix of community, special interest and commercial radio services. Details of the services to be licensed are as follows:
| Service Type | Franchise Area | Target Audience | |
| 1. | Community (new) | Kilkenny City & its Environs | Local Community |
| 2. | Community | Lucan & its Environs | Local Community |
| 3. | Community | Claremorris & its Environs | Local Community |
| 4. | Special Interest (Speech) | Dublin City | Local Community |
| 5. | Commercial-News/Speech | Quasi-National | All Adults 25+ |
| 6. | Special Interest Music-driven (Alternative Rock) | Dublin City and County | 15-34 Year olds |
Under the Broadcasting Act 2009, the BAI is required to produce plans regarding the number, nature and scope of broadcasting contracts that it plans to enter into. Speaking about the publication of the plan, the Chief Executive of the BAI, Michael O’Keeffe said: “The Licensing Plan for the remainder of 2015 is important in capturing those services with licences scheduled to expire in 2016, in addition to making provision for a new community radio service for Kilkenny City and its Environs. This plan marks the first phase of a two-phased process with regard to the BAI’s licensing plans under its existing Strategy Statement. The Authority will give further consideration to any additional licensing requirements towards the end of this year and will publish further details at that time.”
The Authority will now direct the BAI Contract Awards Committee to invite applications for sound broadcasting contracts in the relevant franchise areas. Further information on the licensing process will be outlined over the coming months.
A copy of the Licensing Plan for the remainder of 2015 is available [ddownload id=”128221″ text=”here”].
Media Queries to:
Tony Heffernan/Joanne Ahern
DHR Communications
01 4200580 / 087 2399508 / 087 9881837