asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether his Department had received by 15 December 1980 a submission from any group or company concerning an application for commercial radio broadcasting licences which contained the name or names of any Member of the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will give details of any such applications and the names of any Members concerned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Radio Broadcasting Licences.
46.
Many individuals, groups and organisations interested in operating independent local radio stations have made submissions to my Department. They have been advised that the intention is that only the proposed independent local radio authority will be licensed to operate broadcasting transmitters for independent local radio services when the necessary legislation has been passed and that it will be a matter for that authority to decide in what areas local radio services will be feasible and to select and enter into contracts with organisations for the provision of local radio programmes in those areas.
So far as my Department are concerned no further action will be taken on these submissions. It would be contrary to practice to give the information sought by the Deputy regarding them.
When is it intended to introduce the legislation referred to to set up an independent broadcasting authority?
It is hoped to introduce it in the current session of the Dáil. In reply to an earlier question I intimated to the Deputy that the parliamentary draftsmen had certain difficulties in relation to sections of the legislation. I understand that it will be ready for the current session of the Dáil.
Are the statements in the media relating to individuals or groups looking for licences well based or completely erroneous?
It is not the practice to give the type of information sought. I noticed in the papers one of the names mentioned was one of the Deputy's own party and I am sure he can check on whether that is well based or not.
Another name was that of the Ceann Comhairle.
It is not the practice to give the information but I am sure the Deputy can find out. Other names were mentioned as well.
Have the Department had an application for a licence from any group or individual?
We had many applications but there may be a misunderstanding in the applicant's minds about who will grant the licence. As I have already stated, the licensing will be carried out by an independent authority when it is set up and not by the Department. The Department will license the radio authority to use the transmitters and they in turn will make contracts with various organisations selected in various areas. The applications before us are not relevant at this time because all we will be doing is passing them on to the independent radio authority for their consideration. When the time comes when they are in a position to invite applications I have no doubt it will be advertised in the public press and everybody will have an opportunity to apply.
Will the introduction of the legislation be a matter of weeks or months or will it drag on for another year? It has been promised for two years.
I am trying to expedite it. There were certain difficulties with the parliamentary draftsman in covering certain sections but I am hopeful it will be ready soon.
Question No. 47 postponed.