asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he is aware of any plans to establish a pirate radio station off the east coast; and whether his Department have any set policy on this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pirate Radio Station.
37.
Mr. O'Leary
I have seen press reports recently regarding this matter. Ireland has signed the European Agreement for the Prevention of Broadcasts transmitted from Stations outside National Territories, subject to ratification. Each party to the Agreement undertakes to take appropriate steps to make punishable as offences the establishment or operation of pirate radio stations and acts of collaboration knowingly performed. Fresh legislation will be necessary before the Agreement is ratified.
My Department are at present considering the heads of a Bill in the light of what has been done and is being done in other countries. I intend to submit proposals to the Government as soon as practicable and hope to be in a position to introduce legislation in the matter in the new year.
Mr. O'Leary
Is the Minister aware that the plans for setting up a station were disclosed in the Minister's Sunday paper last Sunday? Plans were clearly exposed for the establishment of such a station. Does the Minister receive copies of the Sunday Press?
Anything I know about this I read in the press, with a small "p".
Control of the news in pirate stations as well.