TV Licence - ALL TV licence discussion/queries in this thread.

1.Do you own a TV? Yes/no

2.Do you own a Saor view box? Yes/no

3.Do you have a subscription to a TV service, virgin media etc? Yes/no

if you answer no to points 2/3 above you can not get RTE etc…. Unless you’re doing it some other way which is a different discussion altogether.

Funding from general taxation puts a risk that if RTE go against the government, the government could cut the money that goes to RTE.

What would be better would be to include the licence fee as part of a household charge with the electricity bills. Would get rid of avoidance easily...

I renewed mine last week reluctantly I might add. Reason being I don't watch RTE, the last time I tuned into RTE to watch a programme was Love/Hate. I don't watch the Late Late including the Toy Show. I think it's completely outdated and something else should replace it. I pay cable, Netflix etc; because I use their service but No, not RTE yet I'm forced to pay them it's so frustrating. It's like paying Bord G'ais when I don't use Gas. Very wrong.

You will find that the government uses our taxes to fund all sorts of things that you don't use.

I don't know your interests but think of the National Museums, National Concert Hall, all the various sporting bodies etc.

They do this because they consider it is in the public interest.

A lot of people people think having a publicly funded TV and radios service falls into that category.

Think about Irish news, current affairs, culture, music, sport etc. You won't get that on Netflix/cable.

Your idea about replacing RTE is valid and a possible option but it would still need to be funded.

So if you had a TV licence, got rid of the TV, got a Statutory Declaration letter from them to say you've no TV, complete and send off that letter, what happens next if they call to see if you've no TV.

If you don't want anyone entering your home, they can't gain access without you inviting them in to have a look around, right? What's this I hear about them being able to come in if they're accompanied by a "permitted person"? Is that a Garda with a search warrant?

Does anyone know the exact legal position on this, including a link to back up what they claim?

Section 146, paragraph 3, of the Broadcasting Act 2009 seems to suggest that they can come in:

Sorry to hear about your father's problem.

There are some circumstances under which he may get some refund outlined here.

You will also notice that he has missed out on a much more substantial sum in electricity/gas allowances.

Just a bit of advice, there are no public servants who will be trying to deprive your father of any refund he is due.

They will just apply the rules as laid out in the legislation.

You're welcome.

If you need any further advice you could contact Citizens Information or a local politician.

As for the licence I believe it's an outdated way of paying for Public Broadcasting.

Unfortunately we seem to be stuck with it.

TBH they won't miss the 1760e but I'm sure your dad would like it back.

Don't give up at the first hurdle.

It might be a long shot but it's worth going a bit further.

There is quite a lot of money there that your dad was entitled to but did not receive.

I think this is the crucial part of the link -

"In certain circumstances a backdate may be made for a period in excess of six months.

The period may be extended where the delay in making the claim is due to:

• incorrect information given by the department OR
• the person being so incapacitated that she or he was unable to pursue the claim OR
• a force majeure

For more detailed information on how these are defined, please go to Claims and Late Claims guidelines."

Without knowing why your dad didn't follow up on his claim when he turned 70 I can't say whether he has a case and the information doesn't make it clear what exactly can extend the period. It doesn't close the door completely though.

If you draw a blank with CI try a local councillor or TD. Ask around who is good at this sort of problem in your area. Some of them have a very good knowledge of these matters and good connections.

Even if you fail at the end of the day you and your dad will know you did your best.

Pay by direct debit and cancel the dd when you leave country?

Anyone?

And no “arrears”?

tks for reply

Can’t see where it refers to arrears though

So one could fill in the form and submit it and “buy” a tv by the time an inspector comes around then just buy a new licence

It’s the game people play 🤷🏼‍♂️

I don’t actually but how and ever, thanks for the links

If it gets to court that is

Sure

@Bronco Bullfrog Just apply online as a first time license. A first time licence is any is every licence not granted by way of renewal.

The license is valid from the date issued until the end of the eleventh month after the month the licence is issued in so it is best to apply at the start of a month.

If it were me, I'd select first time licence. You haven't bought one before, and the previous licence was linked to your late father.