'Major split' within Government on proposed broadcasting levy

James Cox

There is a "major split within Government" on a proposed broadcasting levy.

Sources told BreakingNews.ie that the broadcasting levy has resulted in a "major split within Government parties".

The Oireachtas Communications Committee recommended the change and the General Scheme of the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill is due to be debated on today. 

A number of Fianna Fáil TDs have voted with Sinn Féin colleagues on this, with many of their Fine Gael colleagues against the Bill.

It has been dubbed the 'Netflix levy' by opponents of the Bill, who feel it will bring unnecessary additional costs to people.

Contacted by BreakingNews.ie, Fine Gael TD Brian Brennan said he is "100 per cent against the levy".

The Wicklow-Wexford TD said: "The last thing households now need is another cost, and I think it is very strange members of government would vote in favour of this.

"As sure as night follows day, this levy will eventually go to the consumer."

Those in favour of the levy, which would impact on the cost of streaming services, argue that it will benefit homegrown film and television production.

Media Minister Patrick O’Donovan has previously opposed such a levy, saying people are "paying enough" to stream content.