Vol. 437 No. 1
18 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the number of local MMDS TV franchises that have been granted; the areas covered by these franchises; the payments that are provided for in respect of such agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
38 Miss Quill asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he has satisfied himself with the current operation of the MMDS system; the areas currently served by the system; the level of satisfaction among consumers in relation to the system, and, in the event of this not being satisfactory, the plans, if any, he has in place in relation to the provision of the service throughout the country.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 38 together.
A total of ten MMDS franchises, covering the entire country, were awarded in late 1989 — early 1990 to provide multi-channel TV to non-cable areas. Each franchisee was required to pay £20,000 for the grant of the licence. An annual renewal fee of 5 per cent of gross revenue, excluding installations charges and value added tax, is charged.
MMDS systems are now in operation over most areas. Some areas remain to be served, and while I would have preferred that more progress might have been made, I understand that franchises are experiencing difficulties with illegal "deflector" systems in some areas. I am very happy with the quality of service available under MMDS. Any dissatisfaction I have heard raised about MMDS seems to emanate from those who prefer, or have an interest in illegal deflector systems.
