asked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defensive Measures if he is aware that films have been, and are being, widely shown in various halls, schools, etc., in Dublin, under the auspices of several branches of the voluntary services under his control; that these films are propaganda against a country with which Ireland maintains friendly relations; and, if so, if he will state if they had previously been submitted to his Department for censorship; and, if not, if he will state what action he is taking in the matter.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - War Films.
I am aware that war films have been shown to members of the Voluntary Defence Services. They were exhibited and viewed objectively for their technical interest, and cannot be said to have had a propagandist effect on the members.
Films not publicly displayed for profit are not subject to censorship under the Emergency Powers Order relating to films (No. 196 of 1942) and I do not propose to take steps to amend that Order unless the situation regarding the exhibition of such films requires it.
Is the Minister aware that a silver collection has been taken up at the end of the performance in some cases? Is that subject to tax?