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Media watchdog to begin work after order signed

Catherine Martin (Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, pictured) has signed a ministerial order that will establish Coimisiún na Meán on a statutory basis, with effect from 15 March.

The new body, which replaces the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, will be responsible for overseeing the regulation of broadcasting and video-on-demand services.

The minister has also signed an order to commence the sections of the Online Safety and Media Regulation Act 2022 necessary to allow Coimisiún na Meán to begin the work of establishing a new regulatory framework for online safety, and to update the regulatory framework for broadcasting and video on-demand services.

Appointments

Minister Martin described the move as a “milestone” in the modernisation of the regulation of the media and digital services in Ireland.

Last month, Minister Martin announced the appointment of the executive chairperson and commissioners of Coimisiún na Meán on an administrative basis, with effect from 13 February.

They will be appointed on a statutory basis, with effect from 15 March.