asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the cost of the advertising campaign regarding television spongers under way at present; and the amount of money lost this year through television sponging.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - TV Licence Campaign.
16.
The current campaign is being advertised only on RTE radio and television. RTE make no charge for this facility.
According to RTE's most recent annual report, the Authority estimated that in 1978-79 licence evasion represented a loss of income of more than £4 million. That was, however, an exceptional year because of the prolonged postal dispute. I would expect that the corresponding figure for this year will be very much less, particularly in view of the two successful campaigns which have been undertaken by my Department.