The Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI) today (14th February) celebrated the latest JNLR figures, released this afternoon. With a combined market share of daily listenership (7am – 7pm) of 63.5% the independent radio sector is stealing the march, not only on RTÉ but is also seeing off the threat of new forms of media and music technology including digital broadcasting, IPods and MP3’s.
With in excess of three and a half million people in Ireland tuning into radio stations every day, weekday reach figures (7am – 7pm) show that 2.271 million people choose independent commercial radio stations. Despite the availability of alternative media there is still significant growth in the number of people who make independent radio their medium of choice.
Commenting on the figures, David Tighe, Chairman of IBI said: ‘We are delighted with these results published today which prove the continuing strength of the independent commercial radio stations in Ireland. The public knows, loves and chooses independent radio stations despite the presence of alternatives such as IPods, MP3’s and other forms of new media. The reason for this is that independent broadcasters understand how radio fits into the world of today. Strong emphasis is placed on locally made programmes which focus on issues of importance to the local listeners. This allows independent radio to offer a product to our listeners that internet sites, IPod’s or MP3’s cannot match.
We are also keeping an eye to the future and ensuring that independent commercial radio will continue to be relevant to our listeners into the future. The public have voted with their ears and who are we to argue with the results, the fact is that IBI members are providing a vital and essential public service every day of the week to people from all walks of life in all parts of the country. The facts speak for themselves. ’
-Ends-
For further information please contact:
Lisa Ni Choisdealbha, Development Director , IBI – Tel: 087 2038956
David Tighe, Chairman , IBI – Tel: 087 2038956
About IBI
The IBI is the representative organisation for Ireland’s independent commercial broadcasting sector. The mission of the IBI is to champion the agenda of the independent commercial broadcasters in Ireland and to be a distinct and coherent national voice in the ongoing campaign for competitive equality across the sector. It seeks to achieve fair treatment for its members within the broadcasting environment through appropriate legislation, regulation and funding.
