Right to reply for misrepresentation

PEOPLE who feel misrepresented by any TV or radio programme will soon be able to demand a “right of reply” without needing recourse to legal action under plans by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.

The BAI yesterday launched its draft right of reply scheme, which will allow for the broadcast of a correction of misleading information which had impugned a person’s honour or reputation.

The scheme will apply to all broadcasters regulated in the Republic — RTÉ, TV3 and TG4. However, it will not apply to broadcasters who are widely received in Ireland but licensed elsewhere such as BBC, ITV and Sky.