asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs when colour television might be expected here.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Colour Television.
105.
As my predecessor said in reply to previous similar questions and in his Estimate speech on 19th March last, no firm plans are at present under consideration for the introduction of colour television. The authority is continuing to conduct experimental test transmissions and it has already announced that it should be able to receive and re-broadcast the 1972 Olympic Games in colour. Similar arrangements are in hand for this year's World Cup series. I understand that if the Eurovision Song Contest is held next year it, also, will be transmitted in colour. This will not, however, entail any material change regarding prospects for the general introduction of colour television.
Some four or six weeks ago, it was stated on behalf of Telefís Éireann that we would have colour television here before Christmas. That is contrary to what the Minister has just said.
I understand that a member of Telefís Éireann was reported in the Evening Press of 25th April, 1970, as saying that colour television was almost certain to be introduced here three years before it was planned. I understand that this person had no right to speak on behalf of Telefís Éireann. When the authority were asked for their observations on this report, they said the newspaper report was inaccurate and misleading.
Has any colour television been broadcast from Radio Telefís Éireann, as yet?
Not to my knowledge. I do not think so. I do not know.
Is the Minister aware that Deputy Dowling is always creating trouble in the House?
The Labour Deputy often helps as well.