Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Radio and TV Licence Fees. – Dáil Éireann (19th Dáil) – Thursday, 3 Jun 1971

Mrs. Hogan O'Higgins

asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if any application has been made for a further increase in radio and TV licence fees.

Mr. G. Collins

Radio Telefís Éireann have sought an increase in the existing combined and sound only licence fees, and their application is under consideration.

Mrs. Hogan O'Higgins

Would the Minister be in a position at this stage to tell us how much of an increase they sought?

Mr. G. Collins

I do not think I can because this is confidential information which I believe I should not disclose to the House.

Mr. G. Collins

Quite serious. I think the Deputy is not serious.

I am sure the Minister is aware that a number of the daily newspapers have quoted different figures, some an increase of £6, another £2 and another £3. The public at large are very uneasy that the licence fee may bound upwards. They feel they are entitled to know as soon as possible by how much it will be increased?

Mr. G. Collins

If it is any help to the Deputy and the House, the fact that RTE have made application for a certain increase in the fee does not mean that application will be granted in full or that the increase as sought by them would be given.

Dr. Cruise-O'Brien

Would the Minister tell the House whether it is at the request of RTE that this information is being kept confidential or whether it is the Government that wishes to keep it from the public?

Mr. G. Collins

Communications to me from the authority are always treated in a confidential manner. When the increase in fees has been decided on by the Government the proper announcement will be made.