asked the Minister for Communications if legislation will be required to establish the proposed commercial television channel; if so, when this will be brought before the Dáil; who will take the decision to whom the licence for the new station will be issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Proposed Commercial Television Channel.
12.
It is my intention to introduce legislative provisions to allow the authorisation of the proposed third television channel. I hope to do this by way of amendment to the Sound Broadcasting Bill, 1987. It is also my intention to introduce additional amendments to the Bill to provide for an independent commission which will be empowered to award contracts for the provision of both legal radio services and the proposed independent television programme service and to regulate those services.