Vol. 478 No. 3
150 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport. Energy and Communications his current understanding of MMDS service demands; the likely legislation, if any, in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10985/97]
I have some difficulty in understanding what the Deputy is actually asking here. In the absence of any clarification, I will assume that he is referring to the demand for MMDS service. This is something that is difficult to assess due to the presence in the market of unlicensed UHF operators who are in a position to supply multi-channel television service at significantly less than true cost. The current take-up of MMDS service is in the order of 80,000 subscribers but in a truly competitive environment it might be considerably higher.
The Wireless Telegraphy (Television Programme Retransmission) Regulations, 1989, is the relevant legislation governing the operations of MMDS licensees. I have no plans at this stage to bring forward any further legislation with regard to MMDS.
