Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 15 May 1991

Vol. 408 No. 5

Written Answers. - Carlow-Kilkenny Transmitter Site.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

68 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications the reason for the delay in allowing Carlow-Kildare Radio site a transmitter at Redgap, Rathcoole, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications (Mr. S. Brennan)

The franchising function under the Radio and Television Act, 1988, is the prerogative of the Independent Radio and Television Commission. The Carlow-Kildare station was granted an extension of their original franchise area by the commission, following which they submitted proposals for potential locations (including Redgap), on which to site a transmitter.

The ministerial function of issuing a licence in respect of such services is essentially of a technical nature, under which a radio frequency and other technical parameters relating to transmitter characteristics are assigned to the commission for the benefit of the service being franchised.

Following an examination of the proposed sites, the commission decided the site at Redgap was not compatible with its overall plans for the independent radio sector. The alternative site proposed by the station however, at Cupidstown Hill, is acceptable and I am glad to advise that a frequency (97.5 MHz) has now been assigned to north Kildare and a licence has been issued to the IRTC in respect of a transmitter at this site.