Ryan fears for future of levy-hit radio sector

09/03/2010 - 15:15:23
The Communications Minister Eamon Ryan has said he is concerned about the impact that a levy on broadcasters will have on jobs in the independent radio sector.

Commercial broadcasters say they cannot afford levies of up to €350,000 a year to fund the newly created Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.

Radio stations have suffered a 30% drop in revenues in the past year and there are fears that the BAI levy could lead to job losses.

Minister Eamon Ryan says he believes a solution can be found which would avoid the need for staff reductions.