asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether any system at present exists to ascertain in advance whether programmes on Telefís Éireann are suitable for general viewing; if so, what system; and whether the programme "Medic" shown on Friday, 25th May, was considered prior to its showing with a view to ascertaining its suitability.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Telefís Éireann Programmes.
56.
The Authority acts as its own censor but it has established a close liaison with the Film Censor. I understand that all recorded programmes are previewed by responsible officers of the Authority before being passed for showing and that the "Medic" programme which was shown at 10.30 p.m. on 25th May was passed in the normal manner.
Perhaps, the Minister would indicate to Telefís Éireann that this is not the method by which sex education should be given to the Irish people—through the medium of these American films.
That is a different matter. Radio Éireann considered the film as an adult approach to the matter under discussion.
They are giving themselves pretty good latitude. I do not know if the Minister saw the programme.
Radio Éireann are satisfied that the programme would not be turned down under Section 7 (2) of the Censorship Act.
Does the Minister say that it is necessary that these films should go before the Censorship Board?
I am told that the Authority acts as its own censor but that it maintains a close liaison with the film censor.
Would these films be brought before the Censorship Board?
I do not know whether the censor saw that film but the series has been passed in the normal manner.
Every film that is shown on the screen is censored. These are just films shown on television and if they are to offer themselves as films they should have been submitted to the censor.
The public will act as censor without a shade or shadow of doubt.
They are doing that already.