asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he has taken, or proposes to take, steps to secure that there will be equitable representation of the political parties in Dáil Éireann on Telefís Éireann telecasts; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Telefís Éireann: Appearance of Political Party Representatives.
46.
As I said in answer to previous Questions, I have no function in this matter and Radio Éireann itself arranges for the appearance of members of the Oireachtas in television programmes where it is considered necessary or desirable.
As I see it, the television appearances of members of the Oireachtas may be divided into two main categories—political Party broadcasts on such matters as the Budget or a general election and other broadcasts of a general nature. The programme of political Party broadcasts regarding last year's general election was agreed directly between the Authority and the political Parties and I am aware of no reason why a scheme should not be arranged in the same manner for this category of television programmes. As regards the second category, it seems to me that the Authority should be free to invite a Minister of State or any member of the Oireachtas to appear before the cameras any time they choose. I do not, therefore, propose to take any action in the matter.
It will be well remembered that when the Broadcasting Authority Bill was going through the House, the Minister undertook to be responsible for the answering of questions in relation to the working of the service. A quotation in that respect will be found in the Official Report. I want to ask the Minister whether he considers that there is not an obligation on him to request the Telefís Éireann Authority to take steps to ensure that, subject to its right to pick any Minister at any time, there is nevertheless over-all equity in the proportion of Government Deputies and non-Government Deputies who participate in Telefís Éireann broadcasts. All I want is to ensure that Telefís Éireann develops a reputation for impartiality and, if it will not take steps now to protect its own reputation, the Minister should consider——
The Deputy is making a speech.
The Authority must be free to present its own news and information services. I am satisfied that the Authority is conscious of its obligation to preserve impartiality and objectivity in its programmes.
If the Authority were so conscious it would have taken steps before now so to balance the speakers for the Government and against the Government. The Minister, who got the Bill through on the promise that he would be responsible, should take steps——
The Deputy is still making a speech.
Is the Minister aware of a statement last night by a famous film star that politicians are usually flops on television?