Television Licence Fee.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 May 2004

Wednesday, 12 May 2004

Questions (43)

Joe Costello

Question:

59 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the recent report from the Comptroller and Auditor General on television licence fee collection; if he has had discussions with An Post arising from this report and its proposal to quit the television licence collection scheme; his plans to implement the Comptroller and Auditor General’s recommendations to revamp the scheme in view of its unprofitability; the alternative arrangements his Department will put in place if An Post decides to quit the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13694/04]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

I welcome the Comptroller and Auditor General's value for money report on the television licence fee collection which was recently laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas.

The Secretary General of my Department will appear before the Committee of Public Accounts on 20 May to discuss the report. He will convey to the members of the committee my views on the report and my plans for the management of the collection in the future. It would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time.