Dublin Cablesystems accountability
The Minister said Dublin Cablesystems remains subject to the 1974 cable-television regulations and is wholly owned by RTÉ, with no reduction in licence accountability. He hoped it would be open to committee examination like its parent; Leyden questioned why the Mitchells had not consulted outside the House.
asked the Minister for Communications if Dublin Cablesystems Ltd. is subject to all previous rules and regulations established for RTE Relays or if the purchase of a private company by RTE Relays has reduced the latter's accountability to him and/or the Dáil.
Comment on this
The answer to the first part of the question is yes. All cable television operators operate under the regulatory framework of the Wireless Telegraphy (Wired Broadcast Relay Licence) Regulations 1974. There has been no diminution in the accountability of the company for the discharge of their obligations under its licence.
Comment on this
Will the Minister tell us what the status of Dublin Cablesystems is within the RTE group?
Comment on this
Does that mean that Dublin Cablesystems will be as capable of coming under examination by the Joint Committee on State-sponsored Bodies as are RTE themselves?
Comment on this
I am not absolutely certain, but I would hope that any company wholly owned by a State enterprise would be as open to examination as the State enterprise itself.
Comment on this
I am sorry to interrupt this chapter in the brothers Mitchell, but I wonder why they have to put down a question and cannot consult with each other outside the House.
