asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will request the newly appointed Comhairle Radio Éireann to consider the promotion of a céilí band contest with a view to giving such bands outside Dublin an opportunity to perform over Radio Éireann.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Céilí Band Contest.
I have no doubt that Comhairle Radio Éireann will be anxious, as the broadcasting authorities always have been, that céilí bands outside Dublin whose playing is up to broadcasting standards should be given opportunity to broadcast. In the Oireachtas competitions for céilí bands the number of entries is usually small and Dublin bands almost invariably get first and second prizes. I believe, therefore, that a Radio Éireann contest for céilí bands would not achieve the object which the Deputy has in mind. The mobile recording unit has recently made recordings for audition purposes of céilí bands in different parts of the country and more are planned. In this way it will be possible to make a list of the good bands and offer them engagements as opportunity arises.