Without in any way prejudicing any view we may take on this Bill when we see the text, I would like to have an explanation as to what is the general intention of this Bill. What is the general idea behind this Bill? It is very difficult to know what its scope will be from the terms given here. In order to get that explanation, I believe I have formally to oppose the Bill.
Irish Newsagency Bill, 1949—First Stage.
Leave granted to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to provide for the promotion by the Minister for External Affairs of a limited company for the collection, dissemination and publication of news and information inside and outside the State, and to provide for other matters connected therewith.
Mr. de Valera
The general intention of the Bill is to set up an Irish news agency such as is proposed in the Bill. It is intended or proposed to promote a private company for that purpose. That company will have a certain share capital. It will be small in number and amount. Something over 50 per cent. of the shares will be held by the Minister for Finance. The general purpose is to disseminate Irish news throughout the world in order that the Irish viewpoint may get much more publicity than has hitherto been possible through the medium of the existing news agencies. I hope to have the Bill circulated in the course of a few days.
Mr. de Valera
I am afraid we have not got very much more information than is contained here.
If the Deputy wants any more information I am prepared to give it to him. Without giving the entire text of the Bill, I think I have given the substance of it.
Could it be described as providing jobs for defeated candidates of the Clann na Poblachta Party? That is exactly what it is.
That is the Party political viewpoint.
Ordered that the Second Stage be taken on Tuesday, 28th June, 1949.