Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 14 Nov 1996

Vol. 471 No. 6

Written Answers. - County Donegal Deflector and Cable Systems.

Pat the Cope Gallagher

Question:

148 Mr. Gallagher (Donegal South West) asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he will ensure that, pending the outcome of the proposed report by US and EBU experts, equipment used by community based deflector and cable systems in County Donegal will not be interfered with; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21365/96]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Lowry)

As I have already stated in this House in my replies to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 261 of 30 October, 1996, and 174, 175 and 177 of 6 November, 1996 I have appointed only one set of consultants, namely those nominated by the EBU, to advise me on the South Coast case. No other experts have been engaged by me in this matter.

As a result of the court decision in that case, I undertook not to take action against the South Coast system pending a final decision. The court decision dealt only with South Coast and so does my undertaking.

I will, of course, have regard to the implications for other deflector systems which may arise from the consultants' assessment in the South Coast case, but unlicensed multi-channel systems cannot be granted immunity from any action which might have to be taken under the Wireless Telegraphy Acts. The Deputy will appreciate that I can give no assurance in relation to civil legal proceedings by private parties.