asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he is satisfied with the present system of distribution of first-run films in the Dublin cinemas; if he is aware of the grievances expressed by independent cinema owners in this connection; and the steps, if any, intended to remedy these grievances.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Cinema Film Distribution.
34.
The report of the Restrictive Practices Commission on the cinema trade showed that there had been a number of undesirable features in film distribution in this country, and in publishing the report in October 1978 I said that I agreed with its conclusions.
As a result of the intervention of the Examiner of Restrictive Practices and of the Commission's inquiry, I understand that there has been a considerable improvement generally, but I am aware that some Dublin city centre cinemas are still very dissatisfied with their degree of access to first-run films. I am informed that the Examiner of Restrictive Practices has requested the Restrictive Practices Commission to make fair practice rules in line with the principles which it had set out in its report last year, and that the commission will shortly be formally announcing their intention to make these rules. I hope this will lead to a further improvement in the situation.
Has the report which the Minister began her answer by alluding to, deliberately excluded the examiner's report on the subject?
That is a separate question and I have not got the information in front of me.
Does the Minister know? The Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy had not the answer.