UTV has welcomed the news that its licence has been renewed for a further 10 years.
The media organisation, founded in 1954, was given the good news on Wednesday after Culture Secretary Maria Miller made the decision to renew the licence until the end of 2024.
John McCann, Group Chief Executive, UTV Media plc said the decision is proof of the huge contribution made by the regional broadcaster.
“Today’s announcement provides much needed clarity for the Television division. It is wonderful news for our staff and our business as it recognises the major role UTV plays in Northern Ireland life both as a broadcaster reflecting what’s happening onscreen and as a business providing employment for staff, contractors and the creative industries.
“As a successful regional broadcaster, we are totally committed to providing our audience with high quality public service programming in the future as we have for more than 50 years.
“The commitment of our staff has never been stronger and the quality of our regional output continues to enjoy the highest ratings in the whole of the ITV Network.”
Michael Wilson, Managing Director, UTV Television Ltd added that the decision will allow those within the channel to plan for the future.
“Earlier this year we signed a new agreement with ITV plc to ensure the ITV network arrangements were simplified and fit for the digital world in which we all now operate. Today’s announcement ensures UTV can plan ahead to invest in further technology to enable our content teams to deliver our programming on an increasing number of platforms.
“We look forward to engaging with Ofcom on the terms of our licence renewal and to providing our audience with the same high standards of news, current affairs and programming that reflects the people and issues of our region in the future.”
