Nine new radio stations to be created

The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland today announced a three-year plan to issue nine new commercial radio licences.

They will include three new regional youth services, a quasi-national speech-based service, a national Christian radio service and a classic rock service for Dublin and the commuter belt.

In addition, they will include a multi-city classic radio service, as well as country and Irish music services for the north-east and mid-west regions.

The communications regulator must approve the proposals before inviting submissions for the new stations.