Ahern considers auctioning radio licenses to raise funds for Exchequer

COMMUNICATIONS Minister Dermot Ahern says he is considering changing the way radio licences are awarded in Ireland, with a possible move to auctioning to the highest bidder.

Speaking at a conference in Athlone yesterday, Mr Ahern said the current process has served Ireland well, but he was still looking at other possibilities, including auctions, which have the potential to raise millions for the Exchequer.

“While the existing regime works well and has been a success, we need to ensure that good procedures are in place and that the lessons learned from regulatory models both here and abroad are bought to bear.”