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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Feb 1952

Vol. 129 No. 5

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Power of Radio Eireann Transmitters.

asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he has considered the advisability of increasing the power of Radio Eireann transmitters with a view to ensuring full reception in every part of Ireland and also enabling Irish listeners in Great Britain to receive Radio Eireann programmes; and, if so, with what result.

The Athlone transmitter may not be raised beyond its present power of 100 kw. under the European Broadcasting Convention and Plan to which this country is a party. I am informed that reception from Athlone is normally good, but that outside the first-class service area a good aerial and earth are essential as well as a receiver of suitable quality. At present some interference from foreign stations is being experienced on the Athlone transmissions and everything possible is being done to have the interference mitigated.

As regards the last part of the question, the primary function of the broadcasting service is to give as good a reception as possible within the country and, under international radio regulations, the power of broadcasting stations is expected not to exceed a value which would permit of an efficient national service within the country concerned.

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