Row in Mayo over 'unsustainable' levy placed on local radio stations

A Mayo Oireachtas member has strongly condemned the significant increase in the broadcast levy imposed by Coimisiún na Meán, describing it as deeply unfair, ill-timed and risks the viability of local and regional radio stations across Ireland.

Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh said it also threatens the vital public service local radio stations provide for their listeners, many of whom rely on their radio for companionship and to keep up to date with local news.

She elaborated: "The decision by Coimisiún na Meán to impose an average 39% increase in the broadcast levy three months into the year is completely unacceptable.

"It represents a sudden and significant financial burden on radio stations that are already operating in a highly competitive and challenging environment.

“Local radio stations are a cornerstone of communities across Ireland.

"We would be lost in Mayo without trusted stations like MidWest Radio, who are a local voice keeping our communities up to date on local news, current affairs and sports coverage, and who offer vital companionship to listeners, especially the elderly population, who suffer from loneliness and isolation. This cannot be taken for granted.

“At a time when local radio is competing with global digital platforms for both audience attention and advertising revenue, increasing regulatory costs to this extent shows a complete disconnect from the realities facing the sector.

“Stations are being asked to absorb rising operational costs, stagnant revenue growth and now an excessive regulatory levy. This is simply not sustainable and risks long-term damage to an industry that plays a vital public service role.

“I will be engaging with the government to seek an urgent review of this decision.

"The voices of local broadcasters must be heard, and this levy increase must be reversed before irreparable harm is done and we lose an essential community service that people rely on every day.”