asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state the total number of Deputies and Senators, other than Ministers or onetime Ministers, who have taken part in radio discussions, talks or debates of public interest in each of the years from 1954 to 1959, inclusive.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Radio Discussions: Participation of Deputies and Senators.
42.
The number of Deputies and Senators other than Ministers or former Ministers who have taken part in Radio Éireann discussions, talks or debates on matters of current public interest during the years stated is as follows:—1954, 1; 1955, 6; 1956, Nil; 1957, 3; 1958, 5; 1959, 6.
Would the Minister not agree that effectively there appears to be a ban on the appearance of Deputies and Senators on Radio Éireann? While we may be considered to be biassed in this matter, would the Minister not agree that it would lead to a more informed public opinion on matters of national and international interest if Deputies and Senators who make a professional study of these matters were more frequently allowed on the radio? I wonder if he would be prepared to recommend that there should be some increased availability of Radio Éireann time for them?
I told the Deputy previously that there was no such ban. The decision in these matters are taken by the Radio Éireann Council and not by the Minister.
Will the Minister not consider taking up the matter with the Radio Éireann Council and pointing out that there appear to be very few Deputies and Senators on the radio over a number of years and that it is rather unusual in a democratic country——
It is entirely a matter for the Radio Éireann Council.