asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs when it is expected to have colour television in operation in this country, in view of the fact that it is being tested in Northern Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Colour Television.
6.
I would refer the Deputy to the reply given to a somewhat similar question on 22nd February, 1967, in which it was stated that no firm plans are at present under consideration for the introduction of colour television. That is still the position.
Can the Minister say if it is likely that such plans will be under consideration in the immediate future, as tests on coloured television are already in progress in Northern Ireland? Surely if tests are in progress there, the least we might do is to have the plans for coloured television in this country?
The transmission of coloured programmes will be on ultra-high frequency bands and the range will be limited. The sets in this country are not adapted for this purpose. It is not regarded as a high priority in the series of improvements planned.
Does that mean that all the television sets in this country are not adapted to coloured television and that, in the event of the advent of it here, everyone will be required to have a new television set?
People will have to purchase special television sets to take transmission on ultra-high frequency bands.