asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will take steps to improve television reception in the Newcastle/Ballymacarbry area, Clonmel, County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

RTE are aware that television reception in the areas in question is less than satisfactory. They are carrying out a major modification to the Mount Leinster aerial system and this should result in a greatly improved signal over much of the area. These works are expected to be completed later this year. On completion of the modifications to the Mount Leinster aerial system RTE will then be in a position to decide on the nature of the solutions needed to improve reception in the remaining problem areas in the region.

Can the Minister say whether the transmitter in question is operating at full power?

No, not really, about 70 per cent.

Is it usual for these television or radio transmitters to operate at less than full power? If so can the Minister state the reason and whether that affects reception?

RTE are undertaking modifications and when they are completed they will be on full power.

Is it usual for these transmitters for either radio or television purposes to operate at less than full power and, if so, is there a reason?

It may not be possible sometimes to use full power, for technical reasons — perhaps if they did a transmitter would not be capable of taking it. If they were able to operate them on full power there would be no need for the modifications.

Is the Minister aware that the RTE transmitter at Athlone is operating at half power?

I do not know what strength Athlone is working on.

Question No. 30.