asked the Minister for Social Welfare if the free television licence for old-age pensioners will be extended to include the cost of the cable television service where it is available.

As I indicated in a reply to a previous question, schemes of this nature are reviewed from time to time in my Department, and the question of suitable extensions is normally considered in the context of the annual budget.

Is the Minister aware that many old people living alone cannot take advantage of the free television licence because television is not accessible to them? In order to alleviate their loneliness would he regard this as a matter to which he should give urgent attention?

This is a matter that can be considered from time to time.

Would the Minister see this as a priority to be pushed forward with the Minister for Finance when the next budget is under consideration?

Priorities in the budget will not be determined by me. I will have my say as will my ministerial colleagues who will be seeking to have their proposals accepted.

This might be one proposal put forward to the Minister for Finance for additional moneys. Would the Minister see this as an area in which he would be seeking additional moneys?

As I said before, the Deputy will recall that it was I who introduced this scheme in the first instance and I have, therefore, a very abiding personal interest in its progress and extension from time to time.

Is the Minister aware that some of the cable television companies have indicated they would be prepared to instal cable television, especially in old folk complexes, at a reasonable or reduced rate? If they are prepared to do that would the Minister take the matter up with the companies as a matter of urgency?

The Deputy will understand these are commercial organisations and their first priority is their own commercial interest.