Irish Press plc, FM 104, newspaper executive Ms Barbara Nugent, Lite FM, former 2FM DJ Mr Tony Fenton and Setanta Media are among those who have expressed an interest in new radio licences for Dublin.
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) yesterday released the names of the 38 companies and individuals who have expressed an interest in at least one of the four licences.
The chief executive of the commission, Mr Michael O'Keeffe, described the response as "phenomenal".
Last week, several companies confirmed they would be submitting an expression of interest. Among these was Thomas Crosbie Holdings, TV3, Guardian Media Group, Today FM, Scottish Media Group and a consortium linked to East Coast Radio.
All these firms have lodged expressions, although one company, Guardian Media Group, has not submitted an expression at this stage. Neither has the Denis O'Brien-controlled Communicorp Limited.
By far the most popular licence appears to be the one covering Dublin city and county, which attracted 32 submissions. Most of the large commercial players submitted an expression in this category.
TV3 has proposed "a music and information-led classic rock" station in its submission, submitted by chief executive Mr Rick Hetherington.
Lite FM's incoming chief executive, Mr Scott Williams, has expressed interest in a rock-based service on behalf of Lite.
In a submission from Mr Eamon de Valera, Irish Press plc says that a "music-based radio service supplemented by and mixed with talk elements" is what is needed.
A company called Setanta Screens has lodged a submission calling for an alternative rock music service. Setanta Screens is linked via its shareholders to Setanta Media.
One of the most prominent pirate radio services, Phantom FM, which is owned by a company called Wireless Media Limited, says in its submission that a specialist alternative rock service is needed.
Another group called Platinum Radio has called on the commission to consider "an up-tempo gold-based music service playing music from the 60s to today". This group is linked to former 2FM disc jockey Mr Tony Fenton.
