Keogh: Consideration needed on proposals to redistribute licence fee

The Communications Minister should consider proposals from the independent broadcasting sector to redistribute some of the licence fee that currently goes to RTÉ.

That's according to the government Chief Whip - who has said that he recognises there has been a sea change in broadcasting, and leaders need to consider the value of regional radio broadcasters.

The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland says the €200 million generated by the licence fee goes exclusively to RTÉ - even though commercial radio also provides public service broadcasting content.

The organisation - which represents 34 independent stations around the country - said that at least €5 million of the State broadcaster's funding should go to its members.

Government Chief Whip and Wexford TD Paul Keogh has said that he values local radio.