The number of complaints about TV and radio programming and advertisements to the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) fell by a third last year.

The authority received 73 valid complaints in 2018.

In comparison, it received 109 complaints in 2017.

Last year a majority of the complaints (45) were made under the code of fairness, objectivity and impartiality.

Overall, 83% were rejected and 11% were closed due to a lack of response from the complainant.

2% were resolved between the complainant and broadcaster, while the remaining 4% were upheld in part.

Image: Broadcasting Authority of Ireland

Michael O’Keeffe, BAI chief executive, said: “As is BAI policy, in general complainants must complain to the broadcaster in the first instance. If they are not satisfied with the response from the broadcaster, they can then make a complaint to the BAI.

"The reduction in the number of complaints received is very encouraging and is testament to the high level of compliance by broadcasters with the BAI’s broadcasting codes and rules.”

Main image: File photo of Broadcasting Authority of Ireland logo. Photo: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie