asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware of a report that the actual running costs of the recently established Radio na Gaeltachta are 100 per cent more than were originally estimated; and if he is in a position to state the reasons for this.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Radio Na Gaeltachta.
60.
I have seen a recent newspaper article which contains a statement to the effect mentioned by the Deputy. It appears that the statement compares an estimate made in 1970 by RTE for the first year of partial operation of Radio na Gaeltachta with the most recent estimate made by RTE for the operation during the current year of a more developed service than provided for in the 1970 estimate. I understand that apart from the effect of the greater degree of development of the service in its first year the increase is attributable to the general rise in costs since 1970 and some underestimation of staffing and other costs.
Would the Minister say that was responsible for an increase of 100 per cent?
I do not accept that there was a 100 per cent increase. It was a 91 per cent increase. I am told the increase is attributable, first, to the fact that for part of the current year Radio na Gaeltachta will be operating from three studios in Connemara and from one in each of the counties Donegal and Kerry and will be broadcasting from three medium waves and three very high frequency transmitters instead of one medium wave transmitter. Another reason is the higher staff costs and artistes' fees than were estimated originally. This was largely because of a greater development of service. Yet another reason is the general increase in price levels since 1970.
Can we expect a 91 per cent increase for next year also?
That is a separate question.
Can the Minister assure us that there will be no cutback in the workers' wages as a result of any suggestion from the Opposition?
I do not think the men's wages have increased by 91 per cent.
Deputy Dowling can rest assured that all these matters will be taken care of.