Satellite broadcasting policy and responsibility
Fahey urges an early decision on satellite broadcasting, warning that delay could undermine Ireland’s opportunities; the Minister says the 1977 Geneva position remains strong and anticipates a committee report later in the year. Haughey seeks policy guidelines to ensure benefits go to the Exchequer and to clarify whether the Department or RTE will lead; Nealon says the Department currently has primary responsibility and will consider a policy statement.
: Four EEC countries have decided to proceed with satellite broadcasting. Does the Minister consider that an urgent decision should be made by his Department about satellite broadcasting? When does he hope to have a decision on this matter? Is he aware that our progress in this area with the granting of a footprint at a Geneva Conference a few years ago is seriously undermined by the failure of his Department to make a decision and proceed along the lines of other EEC countries?
Comment on this
: Our position as granted at the 1977 Geneva Conference has not been undermined. We are in an excellent position. The committee are well aware of the necessity to furnish reports at the earliest possible time. If necessary they will furnish an interim report. The present indications are that a report will be furnished later in the year on this. I cannot give a more precise forecast of the actual reporting period of the committee. Everyone is aware of the potential that exists and the dangers of not proceeding in time if the situation is judged to be correct. We must await the report of the committee which is a very distinguished one.
Comment on this
: The Minister referred to the potential of this development and everyone will agree with that. It offered very attractive remunerative prospects. Would the Minister consider making a statement of policy in this area? Many of us are anxious that the benefits accruing from this new development will accrue to the Exchequer. Will he indicate that it is his wish that in so far as these benefits do accrue they will not be deflected into any private commercial channels?
Comment on this
: As the Leader of the Opposition has pointed out, I am very conscious of the great potential that exists provided it is handled correctly. The major consideration is that the benefits should accrue to the Exchequer. We must make sure that our timing is correct to make maximum use of the potential which exists. I will take the request for a statement on this into consideration. We will have to wait for the report of the committee as a first step.
Comment on this
: Will the Minister of State consider laying down policy guidelines in this area? Will he indicate whether primary responsibility for this development will lie with his Department or with RTE? These matters should be clearly defined as soon as possible.