Vol. 556 No. 4
170 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the action he has taken to ensure proper subtitling of television programmes to ensure proper entertainment for those who need such facilities; the contact he has had with the television companies to ensure such facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20805/02]
Section 19(11) of the Broadcasting Act, 2001, provides that the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland shall make rules requiring each broadcaster to take specified steps to promote the understanding and enjoyment of television by persons who are deaf or hard of hearing.
171 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he plans to amend the legislation in order to allow community radio stations to continue to remain in operation subject to certain criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20806/02]
Section 4(1) of the Radio and Television Act, 1988, confers on the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland the function of arranging for the provision of sound broadcasting services, including local radio services. Sections 5 and 6 of the 1988 Act set out the process through which local radio licences may be awarded and the factors which the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland must consider. The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland is an independent statutory body and I have no role in relation to licensing decisions. At no stage did I state that I would contact the BCI in relation to this matter. The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland has statutory responsibility for the licensing of local radio services, including community radio services. I will keep the subject of bringing forward legislation under review.
