The Irish government is set to introduce stricter measures to ensure households comply with the TV licence fee as part of a new funding model for RTÉ. With approximately one in six households evading the annual €160 licence fee, this initiative aims to address the significant revenue loss for the national broadcaster.
Ministers are expected to approve a three-year funding plan that includes advanced technological methods to identify evaders. First-time offenders could face fines of up to €1,000. This plan will provide RTÉ with a stable funding model, reducing the broadcaster’s dependency on annual budget announcements.
Media Minister Catherine Martin is scheduled to present a detailed memo to the Cabinet, highlighting the need for enhanced compliance measures. The proposal maintains the €160 TV licence fee and introduces a “hybrid” funding model, where An Post will continue to collect the fee with strengthened powers to increase compliance.
Despite earlier speculations about a possible reduction in the licence fee, the government decided to maintain the current rate to avoid the perception of a new tax ahead of the upcoming elections. The final funding allocation from the Exchequer remains undecided, but Taoiseach Simon Harris emphasized that taxpayers would not face an increase beyond the existing €160 fee.
The revised funding model follows a year of controversy for RTÉ, including the disclosure of €345,000 in “hidden” payments. The new approach aims to stabilize RTÉ’s finances and support its strategic vision for the future.
A final decision on the new funding model is expected this Wednesday, marking a significant step in reforming Ireland’s public service broadcasting system.
