asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state the total cost of the provision of the new high-power short-wave broadcasting station at Athlone, distinguishing between the costs of buildings, equipment, staff, programmes, etc.

Precise figures of the cost of the new short-wave station cannot be given at present as the buildings, equipment and staffing organisation are only in course of being provided. Approximate estimated figures of cost under the headings specified by the Deputy are, however, given in a tabular statement which, with the permission of an Ceann Comhairle, will be circulated in the Official Report. As I mentioned in my statement on the broadcasting Estimate the staffing organisation for the overseas transmissions will also be utilised for the improvement of the home programmes.

Following is the statement:—

APPROXIMATE ESTIMATED COST OF HIGH POWER SHORT WAVE STATION.

CAPITAL COST:

ANNUAL COST:

* Includes cost of aerial systems for two Areas. Two further aerial systems will be provided later, but the cost cannot at present be stated.