Vol. 513 No. 3
251 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she has satisfied herself with the coverage of the RTE broadcasting services in the west Cork area; the broadcasting services available in the region; the difficulties being experienced by some consumers in receiving services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24030/99]
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 RTE's national broadcasting services.
RTE reports that in some parts of West Cork, television reception is marginal. RTE states that it had a coverage extension programme which was planned for completion by the end of 1999. However, due to planning, legal and site difficulties, delays have occurred in the provision of good quality television reception in towns such as Leap and Drimoleague and areas which will be served by the Mount Gabriel transmitter, including Schull and Ahakista.
If Deputy Callely has an inquiry about a specific area of west Cork, RTE states that it will provide him with a detailed reply.
