News executive calls broadcasting moratoriums ‘ridiculous’

A top news executive has branded the 24-hour news blackout before national votes as ridiculous.

The Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution is hearing from senior managers in Ireland's radio and television networks.

At the moment the law prevents broadcasters from reporting on issues relating to a referendum for the full day before the polls open.

The Chairman of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland Willie O'Reilly told the Committee that allowing groups with little or no support to have half the air time is empowering a cranks charter.

TV3's Director of News, Andrew Hanlon, said the 24-hour news blackout is also out of date.