In what is a significant development, IMRO will from next year undertake music licensing on behalf of the PPI.
“Starting on January 1, 2016, businesses that play music will be able to obtain a dual music licence, rather than two separate music licences from both organisations,” they explain. “Currently under copyright legislation, businesses in Ireland that play recorded music in public are obliged to obtain two licences covering two separate copyrights – one which covers the public performance of the musical work on behalf of songwriters, composers and music publishers (currently administered by IMRO), and the other which covers the public performance of the sound recording on behalf of record producers and performers (currently administered by PPI).
“Starting on January 1, a dual copyright music licence covering both copyrights will replace the current two-licence system and will be administered by IMRO. A phasing-in period will allow current invoicing and licensing periods come into line with the new system and IMRO will be updating businesses as to their requirements.”
Adds Victor Finn, CEO of IMRO: “The new dual music licence will provide businesses which play music with clarity as to what they need to do to be legally compliant. It means that one contract covering all music copyrights will be available from IMRO, rather than two separate licence contracts from two different organisations. This will reduce the administrative burden for businesses in Ireland and save time. As we phase in the new system, we will be contacting affected businesses to explain the changes.
“Introducing a more streamlined licensing system ensures that all businesses in Ireland continue to enjoy the benefits of using music. It is important that all involved in the creation of music, get a fair return for their work. Music is one of Ireland’s greatest assets, delivering half a billion euro to the economy annually and supporting 11,500 jobs. Music licensing is an important contributor to continued growth, maintaining jobs and fostering creativity in the sector.”
Dick Doyle, CEO of PPI says, “This new system will ensure an efficient, streamlined music licensing process for businesses in Ireland which will save them time and resources.  The new model is very similar to systems that are in place in Denmark, the Netherlands and New Zealand. It makes sense that a dual licence covering all public performance rights is available for Irish businesses. We look forward to working with IMRO to ensure a smooth transition for our licensees. An information campaign will be initiated in the coming months to ensure as much clarity and support for businesses as possible. In operational terms, this announcement impacts less than 50% of PPI’s business. As a result up to 8 staff will be affected. Some of these staff will transfer with the business, while others will have the opportunity of either transferring with the business or availing of voluntary redundancy. A staff consultation period is now in train with those affected.”