Mary Henry (Independent)

RTE needs to look up. This radio station will broadcast not just to the Irish communities in the United Kingdom, or to elderly people. It should be regarded as showing the Irish face. English is a second language for many people. Why not aim at them?

I accept the Minister's arguments and will withdraw the amendment but I hope this station will not be regarded as addressing only a few Irish communities abroad, although they are important. I hope that elderly people who do not have access to the Internet will get good enough equipment to receive the television or radio signals by whatever modern method we send them. Never let it be said I stood in the way of improved technology but it is changing so much that the Government may have to consider installing new technology in community centres in England, which it supports. It would be very disappointing if a community with which we are particularly concerned could not receive these signals.