The IBI represents national, regional and local commercial radio stations throughout Ireland. Even though we are all independent broadcasters, within our membership there is a very diverse collection of stations – diversity in ownership, target audience, location, franchise area to name but a few.

Independent broadcasting in Ireland has never been as strong as it is today. Over 65.4% of the population tune into independent radio on a daily basis. This translates into weekday figures of 2.456 million listeners. When this figure is compared to the 1.3 million tuning into RTE we can begin to realise the amount of people that independent broadcasters connect with on a daily basis. Given these figures no-one can disagree that independent radio is providing a vital and invaluable public service to the Irish people.

The 1500 that are employed in the independent broadcasting industry know what the people of Ireland want to tune in to and work with this information to ensure that they are providing broadcasts of the highest quality that are relevant to the audience.

The Independent sector is growing. Currently independent broadcasters operating in Ireland include 2 national radio stations, 4 regional radio stations and 27 local stations and a multi-city radio station. Added to these figures is an easy listening service already advertised and this is all before we begin to focus on digital radio.

For all the differences between us as broadcasters, however, we can still appreciate the strength that exists when we stand together. Throughout the years stations have left their differences at the door and put the good of the industry to the fore through their work with the IBI.

The IBI is proud of its achievements and celebrates its success. It is also, however, focused on the future and we keep an eye on developments which will determine the future of broadcasting. The IBI will ensure that independent broadcasters are involved in shaping the future of broadcasting.

Scott Williams
Chairman
IBI