Vol. 473 No. 4
588 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the action, if any, he is taking to remove pirate radio stations from the air, particularly those who are seriously affecting Dublin Weekend Radio which broadcasts on FM 102.2; and if he will make a statement on the general lack of enforcement of the law in this regard. [1556/97]
Reports of interference to the broadcasting of Dublin Weekend Radio (DWR) have been investigated by officials of my Department who are liaising with DWR on the matter. An unlicensed station, operating on a frequency close to that assigned to DWR and which may be the cause of the interference, has been detected. The Deputy will appreciate that I do not wish to prejudice the outcome of any action which may be taken by giving advance notice of it to the House.
It has become relatively easy for determined people to acquire the necessary equipment for illegal broadcasting. On the other hand it is sometimes difficult to identify the operators and the location of the transmissions, due, for instance, to the transient nature of the activity and the tendency of these stations to move about on the frequency bands. This has led to difficulties in the effective enforcement of the law in this area.
This function is among those to be transferred shortly to the new telecommunications regulator. My Department is in the course of a review of the enforcement procedures with a view to strengthening the regulator's enforcement powers. In the meantime, I want to make it clear that the full provisions of the Broadcasting and Wireless Telegraphy Acts will be invoked against such stations in any situation where the circumstances allow, and those involved in illegal broadcasting, including businesses and people advertising on, or providing services to, illegal stations, should have no doubt that action may be taken against them at any time.
