How to make a complaint


Below are some of the questions you may like to have answered before making a complaint

Who can complain?
What broadcasters are within the Commission's ambit?
What can I complain about?
How quickly should I make the complaint?

Any viewer or listener can make a complaint to the BCC about a programme or advertisement broadcast on a broadcasting service licensed within the Republic of Ireland. 

Complaints must be in writing, preferably by completing a 'Complaint Form'. This form is available on request from the Commission's offices or on this website, complaint form.

Your complaint must be made within thirty days of the broadcast and must include the following details:

the date, time and channel of broadcast

specify the news item, programme or advertisement

a short detailed summary of what might have caused offence and state under which sub-heading of Section 24 (2) of the Broadcasting Act 2001 the complaint is made. 

Your complaint must relate to a breach of code or legislation as detailed in the section What can I complain about?. The Commission cannot consider any issues that are not within the ambit of the code and legislation.

The Commission has a publication entitled Guide to Making a Complaint for Listeners & Viewers. This guide is available on request from the Commission's offices or on this website, Complainants guide. It is advisable to familiarise yourself with the complaint regulations prior to submitting a complaint.

You must inform the Commission of the name of the programme / advertisement, date and time of the broadcast and what code you feel the broadcaster has not adhered to. It is important that you submit all the information required. Otherwise, the Commission may not be in a position to consider your complaint.

If you have any questions on how to make a complaint, you should contact this office. The relevant e-mail address is info@bcc.ie, or telephone us on 676 1097 and we will endeavour to assist you.