asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs what arrangements have been made by Radio Éireann to report the Canada Cup Golf Competition at Portmarnock; and if it is proposed to set aside daily a period of at least ten minutes for a summary of the day's play.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Canada Cup Golf Competition: Radio Éireann Reports.
17.
The operation of broadcasting, including programming arrangements, is now the responsibility of Radio Éireann and the Deputy's question should accordingly be addressed to Radio Éireann.
Surely the Minister, according to his statements on the last Broadcasting Authority Bill, said that on occasions he could take power to intervene?
It has always been the practice since 1952 for the Minister not to interfere with the day-to-day programmes of Radio Éireann and that has been given legislative effect in the recent Bill passed through this House.
Would the Minister not consider that the presence of the Taoiseach at a dinner and a variety of other evidences of approval of this international event in Ireland, both by Bord Fáilte and members of this House, sufficient reason for drawing the attention of Radio Éireann to the fact, inasmuch as every other element in our society has combined to help in promoting this event? It would be proper for the Minister to consider making some gesture of the character suggested in the Question.
They have published the matter in the Press—what they are going to do in this matter.
If they are going to do it, why did the Minister not tell Deputy Seán Flanagan they were going to do it?
It appeared in the daily papers on the 16th June.
Are they going to do it?
They gave notice to that effect.
Why did the Minister not say so?
Because the Minister is not responsible.
Why did he not say: "I am not responsible but Radio Éireann is going to do it?"
Surely they have some gumption?