RTÉ geo-blocking in Northern Ireland must end, Economy Minister says

Northern Ireland Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has called for action to end restrictions preventing viewers in Northern Ireland from accessing certain RTÉ television content.

The Minister has written to the British and Irish governments seeking their cooperation in addressing the issue, following an analysis carried out by communications regulator Ofcom.

The analysis identified an increased risk of geo-blocking as television audiences move away from traditional broadcasting towards online and streaming services.

RTÉ geo-blocking raises concerns for Northern Ireland viewers

Geo-blocking involves restricting access to online content based on a viewer’s geographical location.

Although television broadcasting arrangements have historically allowed audiences on both sides of the border to access services from neighbouring jurisdictions, online streaming rights can operate differently.

Dr Archibald said the restrictions affecting RTÉ content in Northern Ireland were unacceptable.

She has asked both governments to examine possible solutions and consider whether existing broadcasting arrangements need to be updated.

Ofcom analysis identifies increased risk

The Economy Minister previously asked Ofcom to examine the issue and assess potential solutions.

Its analysis found that Northern Ireland faces an increased risk of geo-blocking as viewing habits continue to change.

The Minister recently met Ofcom’s newly appointed board chair, Sir Ian Cheshire, in Belfast, where she pressed for continued engagement.

The findings have prompted further correspondence with the British and Irish governments.

Minister seeks review of broadcasting agreement

Dr Archibald has requested a review of the objectives of the 2010 Memorandum of Understanding on digital television services.

The agreement was established to support cross-border access to television services.

The Minister believes further cooperation is necessary to ensure Northern Ireland audiences are not disadvantaged as broadcasting increasingly moves online.

She said it was unfair that viewers could face greater restrictions simply because of changes in how television content is delivered.

The Department for the Economy has not announced a timetable for resolving the issue.

Other news: More than 13,000 patients waited over 12 hours in Northern Ireland emergency departments during September