BBC Northern Ireland and the Public Service Challenge: Some Reflections

Abstract

Broadcasting in Northern Ireland reflects the abiding influence of conflict between the nationalist and unionist communities and the perception of Northern Ireland as a place somewhat apart. Decisions about broadcast content are made in an environment where each community expects to see itself and can be disturbed to find the other. But there are other communities, as well as many people, who do not think in binary terms. Broadcasting needs to respond to that and to the changing demography, with its more varied and nuanced views. BBCNI lacks both the governance and the resources to respond to this challenge. Key decisions are made in London, where the task ahead is not well understood and priorities can appear oriented towards a different audience.