Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 12 Mar 1992

Vol. 417 No. 3

Written Answers. - Illegal Radio Stations.

Ivor Callely

Question:

67 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications the number of illegal radio stations currently broadcasting compared to 1985; the action which has been taken against the operators; and if, in the cases of conviction, she will outline the penalties which have been collected.

Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications (Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn)

The Deputy will appreciate that those engaged in illegal broadcasting activities do not notify the Department of their activities. At the time the Broadcasting and Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1988 came into force on 31 December 1988 my Department estimated that of the order of 70 illegal radio stations were operating. A similar number was probably operating in 1985. My Department have reason to believe that currently there are of the order of 18 illegal broadcasting stations operating, either full time or part time at various locations.

Considerable time and resources have been devoted to tackling the illegal broadcasting problem. Extensive monitoring, investigations and six search and seize operations against illegal broadcasters were carried out in 1990-91. Seven prosecutions have been initiated in the courts and evidence in one other case is being examined by the Chief State Solicitor to determine if a further prosecution can be brought.

In addition, my Department have placed advertisements in local papers and written to persons and businesses who advertise on illegal stations making it clear that it is an offence to advertise on such stations. I understand that as a result there has been a considerable drop in advertising revenue going to illegal stations.

Since the coming into force of the Broadcasting and Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1988 court convictions have been secured against individuals associated with four illegal redio stations and fines totalling £675 have been imposed. Collection of the fines is a matter for the courts.