Gaelic TV channel plans receive boost ahead of final tests

THE chances of there being a dedicated TV channel for Gaelic language programmes received a boost yesterday when broadcasting regulators, Ofcom, said it believed the channel – were it go ahead – would not raise any ‘significant issues’, as far as adversely affecting the media market.

The decision – not surprising, given how little Gaelic language media there is – coincided with the launch yesterday, in Glasgow, of a Public Value Test by the BBC Trust.

The test – which will involve two rounds of consultation, then a final conclusion near Christmas – is of a proposal to broadcast up to seven hours of Gaelic language programmes per day, seven days a week, and including 1.5 hours of original programming.

The proposal is from both the BBC and the Scottish Executive-funded Gaelic Media Service.

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