Streaming levy announcement not a solo run, Martin says

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

An announcement by the media minister that he would block a levy on streaming services was not a solo run, the Taoiseach has said.

It comes after it emerged that Minister Patrick O’Donovan is to bring a memo to cabinet that would seek to block a plan to impose a “Netflix levy” on streamers, saying the public are paying enough to watch entertainment.

Mr O’Donovan was critical of a plan to allow media regulator Comisiun na Mean to impose a content levy.

Under the plan, which had been backed by the previous minister Catherine Martin, the proceeds would be used to fund independent productions in Ireland.

Asked about the plan, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “Obviously the minister will make a presentation to Government on this, and then we’ll consider it.”

He added: “He is entitled to have a view, he is the minister for the area.

“I’m easy about it at the moment. We’ll just examine it and see where the best options lie.”

Pressed on whether the announcement was a solo run by the minister, Mr Martin said: “Not particularly. I mean, when you say a solo run, he’s given his position. But we will examine it in detail.”