Press Releases 2007
WEDNESDAY 18TH JULY 2007
BCI AWARDS OVER €143K THROUGH NEW ADVENTURES SCHEME
The BCI has today announced the award of programme funding for radio totalling €143,540 through its New Adventures in Broadcasting Scheme. The Scheme, which was re-launched in May of this year, aims to promote the development of innovative and diverse radio programmes. An added dimension to the Scheme was the introduction of a structured opportunity for learning and development through the provision of workshops for participants. For the first time since its inception, the New Adventures Scheme was open to all broadcasters; commercial, community and public service.
35 applications were received, requesting funding in excess of €289,000 from the Commission. A total of 18 proposals from commercial, community and public service radio stations were successful in their funding bid. The majority of programmes funded were in the documentary genre, with funding also provided for the programme genres of drama, music, news and current affairs and sport.
Speaking about the funding support provided, Michael O’Keeffe Chief Executive of the BCI said: “New Adventures in Broadcasting has long been associated with creativity and innovation in programme making for radio. We are delighted therefore to announce this significant level of funding in the knowledge that it will increase the range and choice of radio programming available, while also enabling the development of skills and capability within the broadcasting sector, in line with the Commission’s Training and Development policy.”
Further practical workshops will now be held for successful applicants, which will focus on production and evaluation of learning gained from the individual projects, as well as providing an opportunity to share the experiences of other successful groups. All programmes funded by the New Adventures in Broadcasting Scheme and broadcast before the end of 2007 will be eligible for the New Adventures in Broadcasting Awards, the ceremony for which will take place early in 2008. Details of the Awards winners will be announced at that time.
Media Queries to :
Suzanne Sullivan Aoife Clabby
Q4PR BCI
01-4751444/086-3797291 01-6441200