Ofcom’s report on Geo-blocking of Republic of Ireland television content in Northern Ireland
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In September 2026, at the request of the Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, Ofcom completed a report examining the issue of geo-blocking Republic of Ireland television content in Northern Ireland
In compiling this report Ofcom engaged with a wide range of stakeholders from the broadcasting, telecommunications and technical sectors in both Ireland and Britain.
Key findings:
- The report has found that two related constraints continue to drive geo-blocking in Northern Ireland: territorial content rights and limitations of using internet protocol addresses to identify viewers in Northern Ireland.
- The continued shift towards audiences streaming television over the internet means this issue could grow.
- That there may be merit in the Irish and British Government reviewing the 2010 Memorandum of Understanding on digital television services to assess whether it remains fit for purpose as viewing habits evolve.