Press
TG4 Disappointed by 2027 Funding Allocation
07.10.26
TG4 has expressed deep disappointment at the level of funding announced in Budget 2027, which falls significantly short of what is required.
Deirdre Ní Choistín, Ard-Stiúrthóir, said:
“At a time when interest in the Irish language is at a record high and demand for Irish-language content is stronger than ever, the decision not to increase TG4’s funding for 2027 is deeply disappointing.
TG4 is delivering growing audiences, significant public service value and economic, regional and Gaeltacht impact, while supporting the independent production sector across the country. Our funding should reflect the scale and ambition of that remit.
This decision will inevitably have consequences for what TG4 can deliver in 2027. We will now assess the impact on our plans and strategic priorities for the year ahead.”
TG4 also remains concerned that, unlike many European public service media providers, it continues to operate without a multi-annual funding settlement. The European Media Freedom Act requires adequate, sustainable and predictable funding for public service media. Reliance on annual budget decisions limits long-term planning and investment and creates uncertainty for the Irish independent production sector, much of which is made up of SMEs. Ireland already ranks among the lowest funders of public service media in Europe. European Broadcasting Union research shows Ireland invests just 0.08% of GDP in public service media, compared with an EU average of 0.14%.
The funding outcome is particularly disappointing given TG4’s very strong performance in 2025. The broadcaster recorded its fifth consecutive year of audience growth and its highest audience share since 2009, generated €92.8 million in economic output and supported up to 1,460 jobs across Ireland. Public support for TG4 is exceptionally strong, with 91% of people agreeing that TG4 has a clear need and role in Ireland today. (IPSOS B&A Omnipoll from November 2025)