BAI launches Community Broadcasting Support Scheme 2011

The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (“BAI”) has launched the Community Broadcasting Support Scheme 2011. The Scheme was launched at the 2011 Craol Community Radio Féile, in Blanchardstown, Dublin. The Scheme is open to licensed community and community of interest radio and television stations and awards funding grants enabling stations to evaluate and review the operation and effectiveness of their services. Evaluations funded by the Scheme can either address internal issues e.g. supporting stations with organisational development issues or concentrate on external issues such as aiding community stations to take a closer look at the communities that they are licensed to serve. Commenting on the launch of this year’s scheme, Michael O’Keeffe, BAI Chief Executive said: “„The BAI is very pleased to continue its support of the community broadcasting sector through its Community Broadcasting Support Scheme. The Scheme makes a significant contribution to the development of individual community stations, the community broadcasting sector and the community as a whole. We believe that the funding being made available again this year will continue to enhance the development of the community broadcasting sector even further”. The Scheme is operated by the BAI through its Sectoral Development function. An information booklet and application form is available on the Authority’s website www.bai.ie . Total funding of €40,000 will be made available under this year’s scheme. The closing date for completed applications to be submitted to the BAI is 29th July 2011.