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IMRO Car Park Tariff – Customer Consultation

IMRO is undertaking a consultation on the charging structure used to licence the use of copyright music in Car Parks. This includes spaces indoors and outdoors for all typers of vehicle parking. 

All licensees within this tariff are also entitled to use the Repertoire Controlled by IMRO in telephone hold music for up to 10 lines. 

Our primary goal at this stage is to share the proposed tariff structure and invite your feedback.

IMRO is committed to undertake fair, reasonable, and proportionate consultations when proposing to introduce a new tariff or to make significant changes to an existing tariff. IMRO aims to set reasonable terms and to apply and administer all licensing schemes fairly and consistently. The Intellectual Property Office of Ireland has jurisdiction over all existing and proposed licensing schemes operated by IMRO.

The consultation will run for a period of 4 weeks from 11th May until 8th June 2026. IMRO will review all responses received on or before the closing date. Details on how to respond to the consultation can be found in Section 7 of this document. Note: This consultation relates to IMRO’s tariffs only (i.e., the part of the music rights granted under any Dual Music Licence by IMRO related to musical works in the repertoire controller by IMRO).

Please note this consultation does not obligate IMRO to implement any of the changes proposed, however we may propose an alternative tariff in light of responses to this consultation.

Car Park Consultation Feedback Form

Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Are you an existing IMRO customer?
Have you reviewed the proposed Car Park Tariff document?
If no, please download and review the document before continuing.

CISAC marks 100 years with landmark General Assembly in Paris

The International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) marks its 100th anniversary with its annual General Assembly in Paris on June 4, bringing together global leaders from the creative industries at a pivotal moment for creators’ rights.

Founded in Paris in 1926, CISAC represents more than 5 million creators through 227 member societies in 111 countries and plays a central role in shaping global copyright systems to ensure creators are paid for the use of their work. CISAC members collect over €14bn annually as royalties on behalf of affiliated creators and publishers.

ABBA co-founder and CISAC President Björn Ulvaeus will open the event with a keynote address, setting the tone for discussions on the future of human creativity, the impact of technology, and the protection of creators’ rights.

Sessions will run throughout the day exploring the following themes, “AI and human creativity: The creators’ perspective”, “Our present: The creative economy put to the test” and “Our future: Public policies and cultural support as an antidote”.

Confirmed speakers include former Spotify chief economist Will Page, music creator and member of the House of Lords Kevin Brennan, copyright expert and former director of the World Intellectual Property Organization Dr Mihály Ficsor, South African singer, songwriter and CISAC Vice-President Yvonne Chaka Chaka OIS and French visual artist Hervé di Rosa.

CISAC Director General Gadi Oron said, “This centenary milestone is a defining moment for CISAC and for creators worldwide. A hundred years after our founding, the challenges remain strikingly similar: ensuring that those who create are properly recognised and remunerated for their work. What has changed is the scale and speed of transformation, driven by digital platforms and artificial intelligence. As we enter our second century, our responsibility is to ensure that innovation never comes at the expense of human creators.”

A century of progress

To mark its centenary, CISAC is unveiling a new historical timeline (downloadable here) tracing the evolution of creators’ rights — from the first authors’ societies in the 18th century to today’s AI-driven landscape — highlighting how successive waves of technological change have reshaped how creative works are used and remunerated.

The historical timeline is featured in “THE CISAC STORY: 100 years in the service of authors and creators worldwide” a brand-new book tracing the history of CISAC, collective management and international cooperation among authors societies. Attendees of the General Assembly on June 4 will receive a hardcover edition, with online publication expected soon after.

General Assembly at the heart of celebrations

The 2026 General Assembly will take place in Paris — where CISAC was founded — and is co-hosted by five French authors’ societies: ADAGP, La SAIF, LaScam, SACD and SACEM, representing a broad range of creative repertoires across visual arts, audiovisual, performing arts and music.

The Business of Music Creation: Copyright, Contracts & Career Sustainability

Hosted by IMRO and MPAI, join us for an in-depth and practical discussion on navigating the modern music industry, featuring leading experts in publishing, law, and artist development.

Taking place on Wednesday, April 29th at IMRO, Copyright House, this seminar will explore the realities of building a sustainable music career — from understanding copyright and contracts to protecting your work and maximising long-term value.


Event Details

  • 📅 Date: Wednesday, April 29th (7pm-9pm)
  • 📍 Location: IMRO, Copyright House, Pembroke Row, Lower Baggot Street. Dublin 2
  • 🎟️ Admission: Free (booking required)
  • 📧 Bookings: events@imro.ie

Panel Discussion

The Business of Music Creation: Copyright, Contracts & Career Sustainability

This session brings together top-tier industry professionals to provide real-world insight into:

  • Music publishing and songwriter deals
  • Legal frameworks and copyright protection
  • Navigating contracts and negotiations
  • Building a sustainable, long-term career in music

Speakers

Willie Ryan

Willie Ryan is a music lawyer and qualified Irish barrister who specialises in music and entertainment law. He represents a wide range of artists and companies, including Hozier, Johnny McDaid, Noel Hogan / The Cranberries, Kingfishr and Amble. Primarily an artist lawyer, Willie advises clients on all aspects of the music industry, from management and producer agreements to recording and publishing deals.

He has extensive experience in music-related litigation, particularly in high-profile copyright infringement disputes. Willie was part of the legal team in the landmark Ed Sheeran “Shape of You” trial in the UK and has advised on other major cases, including the One Direction “Night Changes” dispute, as well as numerous multi-jurisdictional copyright matters involving international catalogues and rights holders.

Beyond music law, Willie is a highly experienced defamation and production lawyer. He acts as a defamation advisor to RTÉ and has worked across over 20 seasons of Callan’s Kicks. He also serves as production lawyer to The 2 Johnnies and advises Blindboy Boatclub on broadcast and podcast output. His film and television credits include the critically acclaimed Kneecap and the Academy Award-nominated An Cailín Ciúin.

Willie is co-founder of INNI and the SoundWaves music and podcast conference, and producer of the Subterranean Sessions television series. He sits on the Copyright Law Review Committee, lectures widely at third-level institutions, and has spoken at international conferences including Eurosonic, Mondo NYC and Output Belfast. He is a board member of AIM Ireland and also manages rising artist Moncrieff.


Ed Condon

Ed Condon is Director of Legal & Business Affairs for Warner Chappell Music. Based in London, Ed’s primary focus is signing composers and songwriters to Warner Chappell and providing legal and business affairs guidance across the publishing business.

He also sits on various external committees and industry advisory groups, bringing a broad perspective on the evolving music landscape. Ed has significant collecting society experience, having previously spent six years in the legal team at PRS for Music.


Moderator

Steve Lindsey

Steve Lindsey began his career in music publishing in London in 1985 with Chappell Music (later Warner Chappell). He went on to become General Manager of Go! Discs Music in 1988, working with artists including The La’s and Beats International.

In 1990, Steve joined Island Music as General Manager and Creative Director, where he worked with globally renowned acts such as The Beautiful South, Massive Attack, Pulp, and Irish artists including U2, The Cranberries and Gavin Friday.

He relocated to Ireland in 2001 and founded Elevate Music, which represents works by artists such as Aslan, Westlife, Rubberbandits and IFTA-winning composer Niall Byrne. Steve also sits on the board of the Music Publishers Association of Ireland and is a regular speaker on publishing, including the Hot Press MIX lecture series.

Music Industry Networking Series – Making the Connection

Connect, learn, and grow your network at our upcoming Music Industry Networking Events, featuring speakers from AIM Ireland, IMRO, and RAAP.

These free events are designed for songwriters, performers, producers, managers, and anyone working in or around the music industry. Gain valuable insights into rights management, revenue streams, and the evolving music landscape, while connecting with fellow creators and industry professionals.

📍 Event Dates & Locations

  • April 29 – Galway
    Location: Róisín Dubh Time: 6.30.pm – 8.30pm
  • May 6 – Cork
    Location: The Savoy Time: 6.30.pm – 8.30pm
  • May 13 – Limerick
    Location: The Commercial Time: 6.30.pm – 8.30pm
  • May 20 – Belfast
    Location: Oh Yeah Music Centre Time: 6.30.pm – 8.30pm

🎟️ Free Entry

Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.

To reserve your place, email events@imro.ie

IMRO Marks the Passing of Hugh Duffy, Founding CEO

IMRO is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hugh Duffy, the organisation’s first Chief Executive Officer and a pivotal figure in its earliest days.

Hugh Duffy played an instrumental role in the foundation and development of IMRO at a time when the protection and promotion of music creators’ rights in Ireland was still in its infancy. Through his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment, he helped lay the groundwork for what would become a vital organisation supporting songwriters, composers, and music publishers.

Hugh guided the organisation through its formative years with determination and clarity of purpose. His efforts ensured that Irish creators had a strong, unified voice and a robust framework to safeguard their rights both at home and internationally. His legacy is reflected in the strength and success of IMRO today.

Those who worked alongside Hugh remember him for his belief in the value of music and its creators.

Paying tribute, Eleanor McEvoy, Chairperson of IMRO, said:

“Hugh Duffy was a visionary whose work helped shape the future of music rights in Ireland. His unwavering commitment to songwriters and composers created a legacy that continues to support and inspire creators today. We are deeply grateful for his contribution and proud to build on the foundations he established.”

Paying tribute, Victor Finn, CEO of IMRO, said:

“From the outset, Hugh understood the importance of protecting the livelihoods of music creators. His work ensured that Irish songwriters and composers had a voice, and that impact continues to resonate across the industry today.”

Brendan Graham added:

“It was my honour – as initial Chairman of IMRO – to work with Hugh since his appointment in the PRS, pre-IMRO period, right through to the successful establishment of IMRO as a national body for Irish songwriters, composers, and publishers. Hugh was a frontiersman man or should I say a ‘no frontiers’ man. He was extraordinary in his vision of ‘what could be’, and his application towards achieving that vision was one of boundless energy. Hugh was tenacious, unafraid…possessed of great business and political acuity – in a word, inspirational and a pleasure for the Board to have as its ‘go to’ CEO. In the intervening years Hugh remained a close and valued friend and confidante to many of us who served with him. We will miss him, on that personal level.”

Our deepest sympathies go to Hugh’s daughters, Helen and Nicola, sister Breda, his grandchildren, in-laws and extended family.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Kerry band Simple Things signal breakout year with new single “Wait For Me”

Kerry-based folk-pop trio Simple Things continue their rapid ascent with the release of their latest single, “Wait For Me,” a poignant and emotionally resonant track co-written with Steve Garrigan of Kodaline.

Blending modern pop sensibilities with traditional Irish instrumentation, Simple Things have quickly established themselves as one of the most exciting emerging acts to come out of the Mid-West in recent years. Their sound combines heartfelt songwriting with rich, organic textures, reflecting both their roots and their contemporary outlook.

The band is made up of:

  • Dylan O’Sullivan – vocals, guitar
  • Kealan Cahill – accordion, keyboards
  • Shane Kennedy – bass guitar, mandolin

“Wait For Me” explores the emotional cost of ambition — the tension between chasing a dream and leaving behind the person who matters most. Co-written with Garrigan, the song captures a moment of realisation: that success can feel hollow if it means sacrificing meaningful connection. Honest and restrained, the track highlights the band’s growing maturity as songwriters and their ability to translate deeply personal themes into universal experiences.

Managed by music lawyer Willie Ryan, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Simple Things. The band has already confirmed appearances at a number of European festivals, with UK and Irish tour dates set to be announced in the coming months.

With “Wait For Me,” Simple Things signal not just another release, but a clear step forward — marking them as a band firmly on the rise and one to watch as the year unfolds.

Eleanor Shanley and Mike Hanrahan Unveil First Duo Release, Craggy Hill

Eleanor Shanley and Mike Hanrahan release Craggy Hill, the first track from a series of newly recorded songs produced by Bill Shanley at Madison Studios, Dublin.

Although Eleanor and Mike have performed together for many years, Craggy Hill marks their first official release as a duo. Both artists bring distinguished careers in Irish music, having worked with a wide range of artists and groups including Ronnie Drew, Stockton’s Wing, De Dannan, and Folk the Recession, among many others.

Written by Mike Hanrahan, Craggy Hill originates from his short film The Ballad of the Crimson Warrior. The track is the first of four songs recorded during the recent studio sessions with guitarist and producer Bill Shanley.

Eleanor Shanley and Mike Hanrahan will perform live at Áras Chrónáin, Clondalkin on 21 January 2026, as part of Tradfest 2026.

Craggy Hill is out now on Cauldron Music.
🔗 Listen here: https://s.disco.ac/ydobpbxigjjp

More information:
🌐 https://www.eleanorshanley.ie/
🌐 https://www.mikehanrahan.com/

Recreational Clubs Consultation Feedback Form

IMRO is undertaking a consultation on the charging structure used to license the use of copyright music at recreational clubs. These include:

American Football – Handball – Rowing – Angling – Hang/Para Gliding – Rugby League – Archery Hockey – Rugby Union – Athletics (Track & Field) – Hurling – Sailing – Badminton – Ice Hockey – Scouts – Baseball – Ice Skating – Shooting – Basketball – Ju Jitsu – Skateboarding – Billiards / Snooker / Pool – Judo – Skiing – Bowls – Karate – Snowboarding – Boxing – Kendo – Snooker / Billiards / Pool – Camogie – Lawn Tennis – Soccer – Canoeing – Mixed Martial Arts – Softball – Chess – Model Aircraft Flying – Squash – Chinese Martial Arts – Motor Cycling – Sub-Aqua – Clay Pigeon Shooting – Motor Sports – Surfing – Cricket – Mountain Biking – Swimming & Diving – Croquet – Mountaineering – Table Tennis – Cycling – Netball – Taekwondo – Diving – Orienteering – Trampolining – Dragon Boat Racing – Parachuting – Triathlon – Duathlon – Polo – Volleyball – Equestrian – Water Polo – Equestrian Sports – Power Boating – Water Skiing – Fencing – Powerlifting – Weightlifting – Flying – Racquetball – Wind Surfing – Gaelic Football – Rafting (white/wild water) – Wrestling – Gliding – Rambling – Youth Clubs – Golf – Roller Skating – Gymnastics – Rounders.

Our primary goal at this stage is to share the proposed tariff structure and invite your feedback.

IMRO is committed to undertake fair, reasonable, and proportionate consultations when proposing to introduce a new tariff or to make significant changes to an existing tariff. IMRO aims to set reasonable terms and to apply and administer all licensing schemes fairly and consistently. The Intellectual Property Office of Ireland has jurisdiction over all existing and proposed licensing schemes operated by IMRO.

The consultation will run for a period of 4 weeks from 16th January until 13th February 2026. IMRO will review all responses received on or before the closing date. Details on how to respond to the consultation can be found in Section 7 of this document. Note: This consultation relates to IMRO’s tariffs only (i.e., the part of the music rights granted under any Dual Music Licence by IMRO related to musical works in the repertoire controller by IMRO).

Please note this consultation does not obligate IMRO to implement any of the changes proposed, however we may propose an alternative tariff in light of responses to this consultation.

https://imro.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Recreational-Clubs-Tariff-Consultation-4.pdf

Recreational Clubs Consultation Feedback Form

Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Are you an existing IMRO customer?
Have you reviewed the proposed Recreational Clubs consultation document?
If no, please download and review the document before continuing.

IMRO Job Vacancy - Project Manager

Job Vacancy @ IMRO – Royalty Tracking Executive

Job Title: Royalty Tracking Executive (12 month fixed term contract)
Salary: Available on Request
Work Environment: Hybrid Model
Application Process: To apply, please send a CV and a covering letter in Word format to hr@imro.ie detailing how you meet the role’s criteria. Applications without a covering letter will not be considered.

Deadline for applications is Friday, January 23rd at 5pm.

1. Purpose of Job

The Royalty Tracking Executive will provide support across a curated member client list, ensuring accurate and timely tracking of music royalties. The key objective is to deliver support for our member clients, ensuring their royalty income is maximised and ensuring enhanced membership satisfaction levels and retention.

The Royalty Tracking Executive joins a high-profile team with significant member services responsibility.

2. Principal Accountabilities

• Provide support to Royalty Account Managers.
• Assist with developing processes to manage a growing number of member clients whilst maintaining a high touch responsive level of service with a personal feel.
• Monitor and analyse member repertoire and music usage across multiple platforms, including Digital, TV, Film, and Live.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of publisher and writer member repertoires.
• Identify and claim unpaid royalties.
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies in royalty payments, working closely with stakeholders to ensure accurate and timely resolution.
• Respond to member queries and provide an in-depth level of support.
• Provide comprehensive analysis and extended information to members on their royalty distributions.
• Ensure repertoire is ingested accurately onto IMRO’s copyright database, regularly maintained, and reflected correctly on third-party / affiliate copyright databases. This includes scheduling and processing repertoire files.
• Manage the coordination of member agreements, overseeing both scheduling and processing aspects.
• Work closely with internal departments to ensure completeness of work registrations and royalty processing.
• Foster collaboration across departments to deliver the highest level of member service.
• Assist the Distribution and Operations Team on any other activities as they arise.

3. Principle Working Contacts

• Royalty Account Managers
Daily regarding all operational and member services matters

• Director of Membership Royalty Operations
Daily regarding all member matters

• Director of Marketing and Membership Development
Daily regarding all member matters

• Distribution and Member Services Manager
As required regarding distribution and member services queries

• Other Departments
As required regarding member queries and royalty tracking

• Senior Management Team
As required regarding information requests

4. Challenges Faced

• Management of key member accounts.
• Delivering member requirements in an efficient and timely manner.
• Reacting to information requests and making decisions in conjunction with Royalty Account Manager in a transparent, efficient, competent, and complete manner.
• Clear communication and presentation skills: the job holder must summarise and distil complex issues into easily understood reports.
• Prioritising tasks.
• Accuracy and attention to detail is vital.
• Training and guidance provided by Royalty Account Manager and Director of Membership Royalty Operations.

5. Direction Received

The main direction comes from the Royalty Account Manager, although a high degree of own initiative is required. Direction may be taken from other directors and heads of departments, but non-routine decisions should be made in consultation with the Royalty Account Manager and Director of Membership Royalty Operations.

6. Knowledge and Experience – Key Requirements

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, allied with effective verbal and listening skills to enable them to interact effectively with personnel at all levels of the organisation.
• Strong experience in customer account management.
• Experience with royalty accounting, income tracking or similar areas within the Music Industry.
• Solid experience in building and maintaining relationships.
• An analytical mindset and exceptional attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel (Power BI is a plus).
• Highly pro-active and thrive working autonomously.

IMRO is an equal opportunities employer

Our diverse perspectives are enriched by many dimensions, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, physical and mental ability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, culture, language, and education, as well as professional and life experience.

We welcome job applicants from all communities, cultivating a culture of inclusion for employees and respecting individual strengths, views, and experiences.

Our differences make us a better team – we make better decisions, drive innovation, and deliver better business results.

Job Vacancy @ IMRO – Membership Administrator

Job Title: Membership Administrator (12 month fixed term contract)
Salary: Available on Request 
Work Environment: Hybrid Model
Application Process: To apply, please send a CV and a covering letter in Word format to hr@imro.ie detailing how you meet the role’s criteria. Applications without a covering letter will not be considered.

Deadline for applications is Friday, January 23rd at 5pm.

Role Overview 

The Membership Administrator will support IMRO’s membership services by managing member profiles, processing applications, and engaging proactively with members to strengthen relationships. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Oversee daily administrative tasks and workflow for the Membership Administrator role. 
  • Process new member applications and assist existing members with required documentation and procedures. 
  • Maintain accurate member records, including personal and banking details, to ensure the correctness of IMRO distributions. 
  • Handle general office administration and database management. 
  • Respond to member queries and escalate issues to the relevant department Team Leader for prompt resolution. 
  • Regularly liaise with members to enhance satisfaction and ensure they maximise their IMRO membership benefits. 
  • Support initiatives to recruit songwriters, composers, and music publisher members. 
  • Undertake additional duties as assigned by team leader. 

Key Working Relationships 

  • Marketing & Membership Director, Manager & Department Executives – Daily interaction regarding personal and department targets. 
  • IMRO Members – Daily engagement to address member queries. 
  • Distribution Team Leaders & Officers – Regular collaboration on royalty queries and other membership-related concerns. 

Challenges & Opportunities 

  • Maintaining and enhancing IMRO’s high-quality membership services as the organisation grows. 
  • Strengthening member satisfaction with service levels and royalty payments. 

Planning & Autonomy 

While department objectives are set by the Marketing & Membership Development Director, the role requires self-motivation, initiative, and strong organisational skills. 

Supervision & Guidelines 

The role follows the guidelines outlined in the Membership Department manual, with complex issues referred to the Marketing & Membership Manager. 

Skills & Experience Required 

  • Preferable knowledge of office administration. 
  • Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. 
  • Excellent communication skills. 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general computer literacy. 
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. 
  • Firm understanding of music and industry-related issues, both in Ireland and internationally. 

This role is an exciting opportunity to engage with the music industry while developing valuable administrative and membership management experience. 

IMRO is an equal opportunities employer

Our diverse perspectives are enriched by many dimensions, including race, ethnicity, gender, age, physical and mental ability, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, culture, language, and education, as well as professional and life experience.

We welcome job applicants from all communities, cultivating a culture of inclusion for employees and respecting individual strengths, views, and experiences.

Our differences make us a better team – we make better decisions, drive innovation, and deliver better business results.

Tom Dunne Appointed Chairperson-Elect of IMRO

The Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO) is pleased to announce that Tom Dunne has been elected Chairperson-Elect of the organisation. The IMRO Board voted to appoint him to the role at its meeting on 3rd December, and he will begin his three-year term when he succeeds current Chairperson Eleanor McEvoy in May 2026.

Eleanor McEvoy, who will conclude her tenure after many years of dedicated service to IMRO—both as Chair and as a long-standing board member—welcomed the Board’s decision:

“I am delighted to announce, on behalf of the Board of IMRO, that Tom Dunne has been elected as the next Chair and will take up the role when I step down in May. We are truly excited for this next stage and reassured knowing that IMRO will continue to thrive under Tom’s capable and thoughtful leadership.”

About Tom Dunne

Tom Dunne is best known as the lead singer and co-songwriter of the Irish band Something Happens, who rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Signed to Virgin Records, the band enjoyed two No. 1 Irish albums, sold-out national tours, extensive international touring—including fourteen tours of the United States—and a succession of hit singles.

Tom later established a distinguished career in broadcasting. His alternative music programme “Pet Sounds” on Today FM became one of Ireland’s most influential music radio shows, inspiring a series of compilation albums—Tom Dunne’s 30 Best Irish Hits—which achieved multi-platinum success. He went on to present major talk programmes on Newstalk Radio and today hosts the station’s flagship music show, continuing to champion emerging and established Irish and international artists.

His media work also includes regular television presenting and writing for The Irish Examiner and The Sunday Times. Alongside his broadcasting and journalism, Tom remains an active musician, performing both with Something Happens and in collaboration with Fiachna Ó Braonáin of Hothouse Flowers.

Speaking about his appointment Tom Dunne said “I am delighted and feel very privileged to be the new Chair elect at IMRO. I am particularly honoured to be taking over from Eleanor McEvoy who over her nine years as Chair has helped IMRO grow into one of the most respected and successful music rights organisations in the world. I eagerly look forward to taking up the position in May.”

IMRO Chief Executive Victor Finn, together with the wider IMRO team, look forward to working with Tom as he steps into the role in 2026 and as the organisation embarks on an exciting new chapter.