asked the Minister for Communications if he will make a statement regarding the request by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3 relating to possible provision for Dublin city centre of the French language channel, TV5; and his view of the allegation that a monopoly operates in this area, having regard to the importance of this matter and its relevance to his Department.
Written Answers. - French Language Channel.
33.
Under the Wireless Telegraphy (Wired Broadcast Relay Licence) Regulations, 1974, the only television programmes which must be relayed by cable television companies are those broadcast by Radio Telefís Éireann. While my approval is required for any other services which a cable company relays, it is a matter for the cable company to decide which non-RTE services it wishes to provide. It must also be said that cable companies are restricted by their licences to the use of radio frequency bands allocated to broadcasting for relay purposes, which, coupled with the technical characteristics of some systems, limits the number of channels which can be relayed. Consequently, it is not possible at this time to relay all available satellite services.
Given the physical limitations which apply to cable systems and the necessity at the present time to make choices as to which of the available services should be relayed, I do not consider it unreasonable that cable companies should be left free to provide those services which they perceive will meet greatest demand. However, I am aware of the interest in the Dublin area in receiving TV5 and I have brought it to the attention of the cable company especially having regard to educational values.