asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware of the non-reception of RTE radio programmes in the London area; if, in view of the great interest in Irish news and sports broadcasts in that area he will consider the feasibility of its reception there; and if he will enquire whether the setting up of a new commercial station has had the effect of blotting out RTE radio completely.

I am aware that a local radio station which commenced operation in the London area last year is causing interference with reception of RTE radio programmes in that area. I raised the matter with Sir John Eden, the then British Minister for Posts and Telecommunications when I met him in May last year. He told me then that the interference was temporary but that it would go on for about two years until the present temporary station is replaced by a permanent one on a different frequency. I presume, therefore, that an end to the interference may be expected within about a year.

Is the Minister aware that it is practically impossible to get reception of RTE radio programmes on car radios in certain parts of Connemara at times when Radio Luxembourg comes through loud and clear?

That is a separate question.

In view of this would the Minister consider boosting the power?

The situation to a large extent will be solved when the new high power transmitter replaces the Athlone transmitter. We had hoped that the new transmitter would be in service before the end of this year but I understand from RTE that this may not now be possible because of a hitch regarding the mast of the new transmitter which is being put right by the company.