asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will arrange to make money available for the purchase of VHF instruments for Valentia Radio Station and to add extra lines in view of the fact that the present operation there is losing business for this country as most of the passing ships and oil rigs have now to use the Land's End station.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Valentia Radio Station.
25.
The question of the provision of VHF coast radio station facilities is at present under consideration in consultation with the Department of Posts and Telegraphs and the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and an early meeting between the Departments is planned.
I have no information to suggest that there is a shortage of lines which has resulted in any diversion of traffic from Valentia. However, if the Deputy has detailed information in this regard I will be prepared to look further into the matter on being furnished with particulars.
Is the Minister aware that the present position is not at all satisfactory, that communication is very limited and that the coast is not adequately catered for in this regard?
In fact, the Departments concerned are entering into discussions. My involvement in this is of a technical nature, but the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries are the people who will say whether the service is adequate and what more is needed; and the Department of Posts and Telegraphs will then advise on what type of VHF equipment and so on should be installed and where. My only responsibility is in seeing that it is installed.
Can the Minister say if there is any co-ordinated effort amongst the Departments he has mentioned to get this thing moving?
I have said a meeting is going on and a further one is planned for the near future.