I refer the Deputy to my replies to Priority Questions Nos. 12 and 14 of today. Under the Broadcasting (Major Events Television Coverage) Act, 1999, I have the power to designate a list of events which should, in the public interest, be available on free-to-air television. In drawing up such a list, I am obliged by the Act to consult with the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation. In addition, I must consult with the organisers of the events and with broadcasters who are under the jurisdiction of the State. This, in turn, must be followed by a wider public consultation process in respect of any event that I intend to designate. It is only then that a draft order designating an event or events can be brought before the Oireachtas for approval. Any list drawn up must be compatible with EU law.
My Department has engaged in consultation with the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation on the question of drawing up a list of events to be designated and a consultation process with the major sporting organisations in this country has taken place. It is very clear from the consultation process that drawing up a list of events is a very complex matter. Some sporting organisations have argued against designation of the major events they organise on the basis that designation could impact negatively on their finances and, consequently, on the development of the games, particularly at club level. It must be recognised that the television rights to the events are owned by the individual organisations. The possible negative impact of designation on sporting organisations has to be considered and balanced against the public interest of certain events being available on free-to-air television.
The issues involved, therefore, are complex but are being addressed in an appropriate, consultative and democratic manner. Consultation with the sporting organisations and with the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation is ongoing. When these consultations are concluded, I will be in a position to make a decision regarding a list of events. Given the extensive process involved I will not be in a position to make an order under Section 2 of the Act by 1 April 2002. RTE, which includes TG4 as part of its broadcasting family, and TV3 were invited to submit comments or observations as to which events should be designated. I received a reply from RTE recommending an extensive list of events.
