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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 27 Oct 1993

Vol. 435 No. 1

Written Answers. - TV Channels/Advertising.

Michael Noonan

Ceist:

154 Mr. Noonan (Limerick East) asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications when the Sky Channels will be available to Cablelink in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Michael Noonan

Ceist:

155 Mr. Noonan (Limerick East) asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications when he will decide if he will allow commercial advertising on cable and MMDS television systems; the policy criteria against which he will make the decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 154 and 155 together.

The loss of the BSkyB satellite channels on Cablelink resulted from a dispute between the companies concerning the charges to be introduced by Sky for the relay of its channels. For several years these channels were available to Cablelink without charge to the company or to its subscribers.

Earlier this year agreement was reached between Cablelink and BSkyB for the return of a range of satellite channels to the Cablelink network. The agreement is based on a mix of increased charges to the subscriber and locally inserted advertising on the satellite channels. Some months ago, Cablelink submitted an application to my Department seeking approval for this two-pronged approach.

The two elements of the package are being examined by my Department in the context of a wide range of observations submitted by other interested parties. Despite appearances, the issues involved here are complex, especially when full account is taken of the various interests involved.

In making my decision on Cablelink's proposals, my intention will be to set down policy for Cable and MMDS generally. I am conscious of the ever changing technological environment in this area. It is necessary to ensure that any decision will be capable of standing the test of time.

The policy criteria informing the decision-making process include: the interests of subscribers in relation to the cost of the service, its quality and the range of TV channels available; the financial viability of Cable and MMDS licensees; the impact of the proposals on other media interests. I would hope to be in a position to make an announcement on Cablelink's proposals in the near future.
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