The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) is inviting the public to contribute to the final phase of the development of a code of standards to regulate broadcasting in Ireland.
The rules and principles relating to programme material that broadcasters will have to comply with are outlined in a draft Code of Programme Standards, which the BCI published today.
Today's publication of the draft code marks the end of a two-phased process that largely comprised consultation with the public and interested parties.
The objectives, scope and context of the code were established and a national attitudinal survey was carried out. Research into similar codes at an international level was carried out, and workshops were held with broadcasters as part of the consultation process.
The commission received over 200 submissions from the public during the consultation phase.
The draft code will now be widely distributed to key groups and interested parties, including all those who have previously made submissions on the development of the code.
Speaking today, BCI chairman Conor J. Maguire said: "The code aims to balance the requirement to set down broadcasting standards with the need to facilitate programme content that will cater for a diversity of tastes."
Commenting on the likelihood of future changes to the code, Mr Maguire said "We are also mindful in implementing this code that standards in contemporary Irish society will develop and change over time.
"To address this fact, the commission will produce ongoing research in this area which will illuminate and update the understanding of all stakeholders as to what constitutes 'community standards.'"
A copy of the draft code can be downloaded from the commission's website, and written submissions can be posted to the commission or e-mailed to codes_at_bci.ie
Once the final phase of consultation with the public has been carried out, the BCI is hoping to publish the completed version by the end of the year.
