The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (“BAI”) has today, 24th May 2011, announced funding decisions for Round 11 (Radio) of The Broadcasting Funding Scheme.
Grants totalling €796,000 have been awarded to support the production of 96 radio projects that will be broadcast on 30 radio stations across the country. All the projects will explore the themes of Irish culture heritage and experience. The package of successful projects includes 12 radio drama projects and a mix of documentary, educational and entertainment programmes. Nine will be in the Irish language/bi-lingual.
Speaking about the announcement, Michael O’Keeffe, Chief Executive of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland said “Once again the Broadcasting Funding Scheme has allocated a significant amount of funding directly to radio stations and independent radio producers enabling them to make a range of new and high-quality radio programmes for the audience”.
A total of 262 applications were received in this round. The package of recommendations was ratified by the BAI at its meeting on 23rd May following the consideration of recommendations made by assessment panels. The panels are comprised of experts from the radio production sector and BAI staff. The process of contract negotiations will now commence with all successful applicants.