Culture

Broadcasting remains a reserved matter, so any change over the water directly impacts on Northern Ireland. The crux of the culture remit is devolved to Northern Ireland but events such as the Olympics and Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games will have a local effect on sport.

The DUP remains “unconvinced” on devolving broadcasting powers to Stormont and so would oppose any such move.

The TV licence, the party says, should be cut from £142.50 to £50, with the remaining funding for the BBC coming through government grants. The SDLP commits to giving free TV licences to all pensioners while the Lib Dems say the BBC can be assured of its place as an impartial observer and “free from interference”.

Conservatives and Unionists pledge to make sure that Northern Ireland benefits from the legacy of the London Olympics, while Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games and the bids for the rugby league and union world cups and FIFA World Cup should be opportunities for the whole UK.

The SDLP commits to Irish language legislation, and points to Dominic Bradley’s work on his private member’s Bill, which has not yet come to the Assembly.

In spite of DCAL’s decision not to follow through on the national stadium, the debate is not over for the SDLP and it will push for a single accommodating venue for all sports.

Alliance wants to repeal the Digital Economy Act which it says needs further discussion.

Labour describes how 2012 is a “once-in-a- lifetime opportunity”. The Olympic Games would be delivered on time and on budget, and also promises that the impact of the games will be felt throughout the UK.

Equality in sport is a high priority for Sinn Féin. The GAA should be recognised as the largest sport in Ireland while the party also proposes an all-Ireland soccer team. UK Government funding for the Irish language is recognised as a “staging post” on the road to a united Ireland.