TV phone-in competitions face scrutiny

PROGRAMMES like the TV3 show Play TV that “scam the public through premium rate services” could face fines of up to €250,000 under new legislation.

Communications Minister Eamon Ryan warned that “rogue broadcasters” will face the significant financial penalties as part of a crackdown on malpractice in premium-rate phone line competitions.

Speaking after the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland upheld 10 separate complaints concerning the late-night TV3 quiz show, Mr Ryan conceded there was little that could be done legally to prevent the current format of the programme.