Northern Ireland plans tri-partite approach to UK Culture Minister?
February 23, 2009
Answer given in Northern Ireland Assembly
Devolution of Broadcasting
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he has any plans to raise the issue of the devolution of broadcasting with his counterpart in the UK Government.
(AQO 2099/09)
Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure: Broadcasting responsibilities and powers remain a reserved matter. However, I am committed where possible, to ensuring that the specific characteristics and needs of Northern Ireland are fully considered in the development of broadcasting policy.
I do not have any plans at present to raise the issue of the devolution of broadcasting with my counterpart in the Department of Culture, Media and Sport.
However, I have agreed to a joint meeting with my counterparts in the Scottish Executive and the Welsh Assembly, to discuss the future of broadcasting and how the needs of our nations are fully taken into account by the UK Government. A suitable date for this meeting is being arranged.
My Department has also responded to the consultation process on the Ofcom Review of Public Service Broadcasting. I am pleased to advise that Ofcom has listened to our representations and subsequently amended the original proposals for Northern Ireland in its final recommendations to the UK Government. The recommendations were published on 21 January 2009.
