Commentary on Sections Topic 5: Independent television services Section 29: Broadcasting of programmes in Gaelic
128.This section repeals section 184 of the 1990 Act, which contains requirements for certain Channel 3 licensees in Scotland (currently Grampian TV and Scottish TV, also known as Scottish Television or “STV”) to show Gaelic language programmes.
129.The repeal of section 184 will be commenced by order (see section 47(3)). A fixed date for commencement has not been set because, at present, not all viewers are able to access Gaelic language television other than through STV. However, it is anticipated that, post switchover, more Gaelic television will be available to more viewers on other platforms. The effect of that development might be that it would no longer be necessary to impose Gaelic language broadcasting requirements on Channel 3 licence holders (although they may choose to broadcast in Gaelic).