Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 99: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the discussions he has had with sporting organisations with a view to providing free to air coverage to the widest possible audience; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34523/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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The Broadcasting (Major Events Television Coverage) Act 1999 (Designation of Major Events) Order 2003, designates a number of sporting events as being events of major importance to society which should, in the public interest, continue to be made available on a free-to-air television service in Ireland. The purpose of designation is to prevent certain events that have traditionally been available on free-to-air television services from migrating to subscription or pay-per-view services on an exclusive basis.

Section 9 of the 2003 Act provides that I shall carry out a review of designated events not later than three years after the passing of the 2003 Act. Accordingly a review must be undertaken not later than April 2006. I propose to commence that review shortly. As part of that review I will consult with broadcasters, rights holders and the public. The review will consider the existing list of designated events and may also consider additional events.