Emmet Stagg
Question:177 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands when statutory independence will be provided for TG4; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15418/01]
Written Answers. - Broadcasting Legislation.
I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 1 of 14 December 2000. Deputies will be aware that since that reply was given, the Broadcasting Act, 2001, which provides me with enabling powers to establish Teilifís na Gaeilge as a separate statutory entity, has been signed into law.
My position has not changed and I intend to have Teilifís na Gaeilge established properly and comprehensively. There are many complex issues to be addressed and I do not believe it would be appropriate to establish the station as a separate statutory entity until such issues are resolved satisfactorily. I expect the process of establishing Teilifís na Gaeilge as an independent concern will take a number of years.