(Dublin North-West) asked the Minister for Communications if he is aware of the severe financial hardship experienced by senior citizens due to high costs of the communal aerial service; and if he considers that these citizens should be granted a special, low, fixed rate.

I can understand that some people, including some senior citizens, might have difficulty in meeting the charges for cable television service. However, the charging policies operated by cable television companies are a matter for themselves within the overall maximum rates approved by me. The introduction of a special rate as envisaged by the Deputy would be a matter for companies concerned.

Would the Minister, in principle, favour the introduction of a scheme to give allowances to the elderly who are already in possession of a free television licence for black and white sets? The number of people eligible for this special concession would be easily identified.

No. In the present state of Exchequer finances, I do not think any additional burden on the taxpayer is warranted.

In his position as Minister for Communications and responsible for issuing of licences to the cable system companies, would he ask those companies to give concessions to people in possession of free licences?

As the Deputy is aware, a number of companies who already have franchises are in financial difficulties and in recent times one company has gone into receivership, so I would be loath to impose any additional burdens on those companies or to create expectations which could not be fulfilled.