asked the Minister for Communications if he is satisfied that he has the necessary powers to issue licences for the provision of multi-channel television reception by deflection in rural areas which are impossible to service by cable systems and, if not, if he will bring in the necessary legislation.
Written Answers. - Multi-Channel Television Reception.
12.
I have powers under the Wireless Telegraphy Acts to make any necessary statutory regulations and to issue licences authorising the possession of apparatus for wireless telegraphy used in rebroadcasting or deflector systems. However, as I have pointed out in replies to previous questions on this matter, there are practical and policy issues involved in relation to rebroadcasting apart from the legalities of a licensing scheme. While I am prepared to look at ways and means by which greater choice of viewing might be made available legitimately in rural areas which are impossible to service by cable systems, I cannot hold out false hopes that there are quick and easy satisfactory solutions and operators of rebroadcasting systems render themselves liable to prosecution.