A new funding scheme developed by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) to support the archiving of broadcast material has been approved by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte TD.
The aim of the Broadcast Archiving Scheme is to encourage and support the development of an archiving culture in the Irish broadcasting sector as a whole.
In particular three objectives are outlined: (i) to develop an integrated approach to the archiving of programme material to include the promotion, development and safeguarding of Ireland’s broadcasting heritage (this includes the promotion of archiving of programme material which is of benefit to, and advances the standards of, Irish broadcasting); (ii) to develop suitable storage processes and formats to encourage and assist bodies in the restoration and/or storage of material recorded on failing, or soon to be obsolete formats, and (iii) to provide fast and accurate access to programme materials by interested parties and to raise public awareness in the preservation and use of broadcast archive materials.
The Scheme will be financed through a percentage of the annual Broadcasting Fund derived from the TV licence fee. The BAI expects to issue a call for applications by the end of the second quarter of 2012.
Speaking about the announcement, Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte TD said “This is a very welcome development for both the broadcasting industry and Irish audiences. The Broadcast Archiving Scheme will contribute to the preservation of Ireland’s broadcasting heritage and provide the public with additional access to the very rich history and culture of broadcasting in Ireland. I wish the Scheme every success.”
Bob Collins Chairperson of the BAI said “The BAI welcomes the approval of the Broadcast Archiving Scheme. We are confident that the Scheme will be of benefit to all who share an interest in preserving Irish culture, history and experience. The Scheme was developed through engagement with a wide range of broadcasters and expert groups. We look forward to receiving applications to the first round of the Scheme in the coming months.”
Further information about the Scheme including details on funding rounds and how to apply will be made available by the BAI in the coming months.
