asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware that during a sponsored broadcast on 24th April a song was recited containing an insulting reference to the former Minister; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sponsored Broadcast.
In the ordinary way I propose to maintain the independence of Comhairle Radio Éireann by asking Deputies to make representations direct to Radio Éireann but as the question involves a member of the House I feel it right to give a full explanation.
The reference to the former Minister, which was broadcast in a sponsored programme on April 17th, was jocose but not insulting. I understand that this record was not passed for inclusion in the programme by the Radio Eireann staff, and the producers of the programme have since apologised for including it.
I should add that I will give every encouragement to the director to makeuse of traditional or current political ballads, songs and comedy patter such as can be heard at concerts and variety shows all over the democratic world, using discrimination to ensure that there is genuine humour and that the composition is not vicious in content. Songs have been sung already about Ministers in office and there have been no complaints. I do not propose to inquire into the character of the song referred to by the Deputy but to rely on the good sense of the director for having not passed it for broadcasting.
Will the Minister inform those non-nationals and others in the broadcasting department that there will be a change of Government and that they will also be changed—non-nationals like himself?
Deputy Everett has just referred to the existence of non-nationals in Radio Eireann and added the words "like himself", referring to the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs. The Deputy should be asked to withdraw that remark.
I did not hear the remark.
I said there was a doubt about his nationality.
There is no doubt about it or about his services to this country.
The Deputy should withdraw the remark.
I withdraw it but that will not prevent me from saying it outside.
Deputy Everett said he withdrew the remark but that would not prevent him from saying it outside.
He has withdrawn his remark so far as this House is concerned.
He should withdraw the remark unreservedly.
He is too old to learn manners now.