Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Mar 1993

Vol. 428 No. 1

Written Answers. - Satellite Broadcasting Regulations.

Liz McManus

Question:

413 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht if he has satisfied himself that the existing regulatory framework controlling the content of satellite broadcasting services is adequate; his views on whether the proliferation of European pornographic channels might warrant new statutory powers and arrangements to enable control to be exercised if they are easily obtainable on satellite dish systems; if he will consider measures which may have to be adopted at European level; if he will initiate a new study of these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht (Mr. M. Higgins)

I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 28 of 9 March 1993.

Under Statutory Instrument No. 251 of 1991, Irish broadcasters have to comply with Article 22 of Directive 89/552/EC. It is a matter for other member states to ensure that broadcasters operating under their jurisdiction are obliged to comply with the terms of the Directive.

I am aware of the transmission of satellite broadcasts intended primarily for reception in other member states which comprise almost entirely explicit sexual material. I am also aware of attempts which are being made to prevent such transmissions. The success or otherwise of the attempts to prevent these broadcasts will provide a test of the effectiveness of the Directive's provisions and I will be following the developments closely.

The application of the provisions of the Directive are subject to ongoing review by member states and the EC Commission.