asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs when the television transmitter at Mount Leinster will come into operation.
125.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Television Service.
124.
asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if it is proposed to extend to County Donegal transmission from Telefís Éireann; and, if so, when.
126.
asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs when television transmissions from the Mullaghanish station will commence.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 124, 125 and 126 together. As Deputies are aware, it is the function of the Broadcasting Authority to provide a national television service and it will be for the Authority to decide when the provincial transmitters will be brought into operation. I am aware that the Authority is making every effort to extend the service to all areas as soon as possible, and in spite of unforeseen difficulties and delays it hopes to have the four provincial transmitters in operation by the end of this year. It should then be possible to receive the Telefís Éireann programmes in practically all areas. If reception is not satisfactory in some isolated districts the Authority will consider what further steps should be taken to give adequate coverage in those districts.
May I take it that Mount Leinster will be in operation before the end of the year?
That is the information I have.
I am grateful to the Minister.