Press Releases 2006

25th SEPTEMBER 2006

BCI WELCOMES SCHEME FOR PUBLICATION OF BROADCASTING BILL, 2006

The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) has today (September 25th) signed a ten year sound broadcasting contract with News 106 Ltd. (trading as Newstalk 106-108) for the provision of a quasi-national news/speech sound broadcasting service on the FM band. 

Newstalk 106-108 will offer a top-class media service which provides cogent, entertaining and defining discussion for Ireland.  The service will be speech-driven for adults aged 25+, with a primary audience of 25-44 year olds and a secondary audience of 45-55 year old adults.  Newstalk 106-108 will broadcast 24 hours per day with over 120 hours of live programming per week.

Speaking at the contract signing, Conor J. Maguire, Chairperson of the BCI said, “We are delighted to sign today’s contract with Newstalk 106-108.  In now broadcasting to a national audience, the service will mark a new era in Irish broadcasting.  We are confident that the service will add significantly to news and speech-based radio in Ireland and will provide Irish listeners with a vibrant alternative.”

Newstalk 106-108 was represented at the signing by Denis O’ Brien, Chairperson and Brian Reddy, Director.  Conor Maguire, Chairperson of the BCI and Celene Craig, Secretary to the Board, signed on behalf of the Commission.

The service will commence broadcasting on Friday 29th September 2006.

Ends

Media Queries to:

Aoife Clabby
BCI
01 6441200