Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 85: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options on the future development of the television industry with particular reference to free to air coverage of specific sporting events, such as the Ryder Cup; his plans for the future of terrestrial television; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6599/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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In March 2003 the Broadcasting (Major Events Television Coverage) Act 1999 (Designation of Major Events) Order 2003 specified the events designated as events of major importance to society for which the right of a qualifying broadcaster to provide coverage on free television services should be provided in the public interest. Section 9 of the Broadcasting (Major Events Television Coverage) (Amendment) Act 2003 requires me to carry out a review of designated events not later than three years after the passing of the 2003 Act, that is to say, not later than April 2006. I announced my intention to commence this review in December 2005. The purpose of the review is to consider if the list of events designated in 2003 should be amended.

As part of the review, I initiated a public consultation process. My Department wrote to the sporting organisations that organise the events already designated, along with the European Tour and Ryder Cup, informing them of the review and seeking their views. My Department has also sought the views of broadcasters.

I have received submissions from event organisers, broadcasters and members of the public via written submission, e-mail and on an Internet forum. The submissions received have been made available on my Department's website. A report on the review is being prepared in my Department and I intend to complete the review shortly.

If, following the review, I decide to amend the list of designated events, then, in accordance with the provisions of the Broadcasting (Major Events Television Coverage) Act 1999, I will publish my intention to do so and seek the views of interested parties. This would involve a further formal consultation with event organisers and broadcasters. EU approval would also be required before I could lay an order before both Houses of the Oireachtas to give effect to the designation.

My core policy objectives for the development of the broadcasting sector are set down in my Department's statement of strategy 2005-07. This strategy was drawn up following consultation with key players in the industry and is available on my Department's website www.dcmnr.ie. Irish viewers will be best served by a broadcasting environment that includes a strong public service broadcasting presence, together with private broadcasters.