asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if his Department has contemplated the introduction of television programmes; and, if so, what progress has been made in that direction.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Television Programmes.
I have not contemplated the introduction of television programmes as a matter of immediate concern. Such a development depends on the construction in the first instance of a radio building on the site purchased some years ago and in regard to this there are many problems to be overcome. In any event, the provision of television can only be considered in relation to the general extension of broadcasting.
Some of the smaller countries in Europe are operating experimental three to seven hour a week services, in some cases connected with the promotion of television manufacturing interests of great importance to the particular country's export trade.
The Deputy will appreciate that the cost of television is almost prohibitive for a small State, an hour's live outside broadcasting costing £700 to £1,200 over and above ordinary operating expenses. In connection with the future of broadcasting as a whole the question of television with a high proportion of recorded outside broadcasts for transmission at fixed hours is being examined with a view to ascertaining maximum and minimum costs but this examination is in the nature of research and does not indicate that any immediate decision is contemplated.
I should mention that with a view to safeguarding the country's position in the future in regard to wavelengths, the Department's engineering adviser has been sent to a conference at present meeting in Stockholm to take stock of the wavelength position in regard to television and very high frequency broadcasting and to draw up a preliminary plan of allocations, if found to be feasible at such an early stage.
Has the Minister considered the possibility or advisability of erecting some form of boost here in Dublin which would enable certain programmes to be reflected so that the people here could see? I am told that that is a possibility.
That matter has been considered. The costs of providing what might be described as a pipe line prohibit it, apart from any other difficulties attached thereto.