Dáil Éireann - Volume 363 - 22 January, 1986

Written Answers. - Reception of British Television.

Mr. F. Fahey Mr. F. Fahey

103

131. Mr. F. Fahey asked the Minister for Communications if he is prepared to [103] introduce legislation with a view to establishing a proper system of licensing, channel co-ordination and control of technical standards for the receipt of British television signals in rural Ireland.

Minister for Communications (Mr. J. Mitchell) Jim Mitchell

Minister for Communications (Mr. J. Mitchell): I would refer the Deputy to my reply on 2 July 1985 to a similar question on this matter. (Volume 360 No. 1, cols. 13 to 15). While I am prepared to look at ways and means by which greater choice of viewing might be made available legitimately in rural Ireland, I cannot hold out false hopes that there are quick and easy solutions. In the meantime I must uphold the law and take action within the resources available to me against those who are breaking it.

Mr. F. Fahey Mr. F. Fahey

132. Mr. F. Fahey asked the Minister for Communications if he will now enter negotiations with the British Broadcasting Corporation and the Performing Rights Society on copyright agreements for the receipt of British television signals in rural Ireland in view of their willingness to discuss such agreements.

Minister for Communications (Mr. J. Mitchell) Jim Mitchell

Minister for Communications (Mr. J. Mitchell): My Department has no function in regard to the negotiation of copyright agreements. This is a matter between those who wish to use copyright protected material and copyright owners.

I would also refer the Deputy to my reply to a question on 2 July 1985 (Vol. 360 No. 1 cols. 13 to 15) in which I outlined other practical and policy issues involved in regard to the licensing of rebroadcasting systems.

Dáil Éireann 363 Written Answers. Reception of British Television.

Questions

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