With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 354, 355 and 356 together.
A decision has not so far been reached on the application made to me by the Broadcasting Authority for an increase in licence fees. The application, which is based on the need to meet increased operating and other costs, is still under examination.
The quality of reception is a matter primarily for RTE. I am advised by the authority that television coverage extends to 98 per cent of the country. The remainder is made up of small individual areas where reception is affected by adverse conditions of terrain. The authority has made a study of these areas and is dealing with them as quickly as possible in order of population density.