Vol. 574 No. 1
156 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to his discussions with the EU on proposals to regulate foreign television stations broadcasting into Ireland; when he expects that this matter will be concluded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26289/03]
The television without frontiers directive regulates the reception and retransmission of television broadcasts from one member state to another. The EU Commission is conducting a review of the directive and has invited submissions from interested parties. In its formal submission to the Commission Ireland has suggested that the directive should be amended to ensure that a broadcasting service originating in one member state but intended primarily for reception in another member state, should be subject to the broadcasting standards of the member state at which it is primarily directed. In an Irish context it is reasonable to expect that Irish broadcasting standards should be applied to television channels intended primarily for reception in Ireland. A copy of Ireland's submission is available on my Department's website.
The European Commission has indicated that it intends to publish at the end of 2003 a communication on the future of audiovisual policy together with proposals to amend the directive if appropriate. It is expected that the Commission will bring forward proposals to amend the directive in late 2004. It is my intention to continue to pursue the question of the regulation of services primarily targeted at Ireland as the review process progresses.
157 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he intends to bring proposals to Government to establish TG4 as an independent statutory entity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26282/03]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 157 on Tuesday, 7 October 2003.
