Media groups call for end to equal referendum coverage

TV3 and the 32 independent radio stations have called for an end to the practice of equal coverage for opposing sides in referendum debates and the scrapping of the ban on coverage on the last day before polling.

The broadcasters say that having to ensure equal coverage for both sides in the run-up to the Lisbon treaty vote meant a small number of minority groups and largely unelected individuals on the No side enjoyed the same air time as the numerous popular groups and elected individuals on the Yes side.

Willie O’Reilly, chairman of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland and head of Today FM, told the Oireachtas committee on the constitution that the system created a “cranks charter”.