asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism the up-to-date position regarding plans to broadcast Dáil and Seanad proceedings; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Broadcasting of Dáil and Seanad Proceedings.
41.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government and the Dáil and Seanad Committees on Procedure and Privileges have agreed that radio broadcasting, in edited form, of Dáil, Seanad and Oireachtas Committee debates should commence as soon as possible. In this regard the Government have made £100,000 available for the purchase of the necessary equipment.
Over the past few months, difficulties were experienced in identifying suitable accommodation, in the vicinity of Leinster House, for the RTE broadcasting-taping facility. It had originally been the intention to locate this facility in 28 Molesworth Street but following detailed technical evaluation, it emerged that this location was not suitable. However, I am pleased to say that suitable accommodation has been identified in Frederick Building in the Setanta complex and the necessary adaptation-refurbishment is now being undertaken by OPW in consultation with RTE. It now appears unlikely that broadcasting, in the form approved, can take place before the Christmas recess but it is the Government's intention that the broadcasting will commence at the beginning of the first Dáil Session in 1986
Question No. 42 withdrawn.