I intend to take Questions Nos. 27, 41, 42, 45 and 68 together.
Section 4 of the Radio and Television Act, 1988, specifies that it shall be a function of the Independent Radio and Television Commission to arrange for the provision of sound broadcast services including a national sound broadcasting service additional to the broadcasting services provided by Radio Telefis Éireann. I am satisfied that those provisions are adequate to enable the Independent Radio and Television Commission to provide for community radio services. It is not my intention to amend the Act at this stage.
My function as regards issuing the licences to the commission will not arise until the commission are in a position to enter into contracts for the provision of community services. It is clearly and statutorily a function of the commission to bring the matter to that stage.