asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if any submissions have been made to him regarding the setting up of an Irish news agency service; and, if so, if any action has been taken on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers (Resumed). - Irish News Agency Service.
49.
No formal submissions have been made to me in this matter, although individual journalists have expressed interest. In answer to a previous question from the Deputy, I informed the Dáil on 8th May that the Government would view with favour the formation of a National News Agency, provided it were to become clear that such an agency would have the requisite support from the Irish newspapers and media, as well as from the journalistic profession in Ireland. I added that if there were indications that such support would be forthcoming, the Government would be prepared to co-operate with the Press and media towards the establishment of such an agency. Up to now I have not received such indications, and there the matter rests for the present.