Manx Radio licence speech rules under investigation

Manx Radio is facing a formal investigation into whether it is meeting speech content rules set out in its broadcasting licence.

The Isle of Man Communications and Utilities Regulatory Authority has escalated the matter to its Compliance and Enforcement Section after months of discussions with the broadcaster failed to reach a resolution.

The regulator said complaints have been raised since late 2024 over the inclusion of the Manx Radio Gold service within the station’s overall output. CURA concluded the service is not separate enough from the main Manx Radio operation to require its own licence, meaning its programming must be included when assessing compliance with Manx Radio’s public service broadcasting obligations.

As the Island’s named public service broadcaster under the Communications Act 2021, Manx Radio is required to meet stricter speech content quotas than commercial rivals.

CURA said analysis carried out by the authority raised concerns that, when Manx Radio Gold programming is included, speech content falls below the 40% minimum required under the licence during certain periods.

The authority said it had shared its findings with Manx Radio in meetings and formal reports, while also inviting the broadcaster to propose remedies ahead of a future public consultation.

In the notice, CURA said: “There has been no progress towards resolving this matter and it appears the Authority and Manx Radio are now at an impasse.”

The regulator said the investigation will focus initially on speech content compliance but may expand if further issues emerge during the process.