asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will ensure that the S.P. and tote prices are given in conjunction with the racing results broadcast by Radio Éireann prior to the 6.30 p.m. news bulletin, in view of the futility to interested parties of the present system of giving partial information, and the anxiety occasioned in certain instances by the lack of full information.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Broadcast of Betting Prices.
31.
As the Deputy was informed in reply to a previous similar question, the Minister does not interfere with the discretion of the Director of Broadcasting in regard to a matter of programme detail of this sort. However, I understand the director considers that, having regard to the facilities already otherwise available and the limited overall time available on the radio for announcements in which a variety of matters must be included, the information now given is adequate.
Is the Minister aware that the S.P. prices are not given until the sponsored programme at 11 o'clock? This is a matter of public interest and while the Minister might have no function in regard to the day-to-day administration of Radio Éireann, this is a matter in which he would be entitled to interfere. Would the Minister kindly communicate to Radio Éireann the wishes of this House which, I think, are unanimous on this question? I would remind the Minister that since I first brought this matter to his attention some months ago, the B.B.C. gives the S.P. prices at 6.25 p.m.
The Deputy should appreciate that this is the sort of broadcasting detail which is left to the discretion of the Director of Broadcasting to include or exclude in the broadcasting of racing results.