1509. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the measures he will take in Budget 2027 to support the sustainability of the independent radio sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56736/26]

The independent radio sector plays a vital role in providing valuable public service content to the Irish public, contributing to a diversity and a plurality of voices in the media sector. This Government is committed to promoting a strong, independent media sector that provides essential public service broadcasting. I am acutely aware of the challenges facing our independent radio stations in the current climate and in an increasingly competitive market.

In line with the recommendations of the Future of Media Commission, the General Scheme of the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill contains measures to implement a statutory Media Fund. A suite of funding schemes catering to all parts of the sector currently operate on an administrative basis, pending the establishment of the new statutory Media Fund.

So far in 2026, €4.3m has been awarded to support the commercial radio sector, at a local, regional and national level, through the suite of funding schemes supporting the wider media sector. This is a significant increase in year on year funding for the sector and represents this Government's commitment to supporting independent media, including radio, in Ireland.

The funding includes €3m in ring-fenced supports for the commercial radio sector, which was awarded by Coimisiún na Meán through the News Reporting Scheme. Round 2 of the News Reporting Scheme recently closed for applications, with funding awards expected to be announced by Coimisiún na Meán shortly.

It is notable that the Media Fund schemes are an addition to other supports for the sector which provided considerable support to the radio sector over recent years. Between 2020 and 2025, the commercial radio sector was supported with over €13m in funding through the Sound and Vision Scheme, which is administered on a competitive basis.

The range of schemes currently in operation to all parts of the media sector and are administered on a platform neutral basis, making funding available to independent radio and the wider media sector.

The independent radio sector is a trusted news source and contributes to a thriving and diverse media landscape in Ireland. This is particularly important in terms of protecting democracy against the threats posed by misinformation and disinformation.

The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot comment on the 2027 allocations to the Media Fund, which are subject to the deliberative process for the forthcoming Budget and the preparation of the 2027 Estimates.