Vol. 503 No. 3
456 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she will ascertain from RTE the reason it will not provide a proper signal for TnaG, RTE 1 and Network 2 for the people of Porturlin, Carrowtigue, Shrataggle and other areas in north Mayo; and when the transmitter for Dooncartin will be operational. [10123/99]
457 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the reason the largest Gaeltacht area in the country which is located in north Mayo, cannot receive a proper signal for TnaG. [10124/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 and 457 together.
The issue raised by the Deputy is the day-to-day responsibility of the RTE Authority and I have no statutory function in the matter. However, in accordance with long-standing custom, I am prepared to furnish to the House information supplied by RTE in response to questions relating specifically to improvements in reception of national broadcasting services.
RTE informs me that it is aware that the quality of reception of RTE 1, Network 2 and Teilifís na Gaeilge in the areas in question is inadequate. RTE reports that it planned to install a transmitter at Dooncartin during 1997, but was unable to do so. RTE states that it has since purchased a new site and are awaiting planning permission from Mayo County Council. Subject to the planning permission being granted, and site development, the installation of the transmitter should be completed before the end of 1999. The transmitter will provide good quality reception of the three channels referred to viewers in the north Mayo area.
