Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 73: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the EU Education, Youth and Culture Council on 18 and 19 May 2006 wherein a revision of the TV Without Frontiers Directive was discussed; his views on whether there may be a problem of relocation due to the country of origin principle; if he has assented to the suggestion by Belgium to hold an informal Council in June 2006 to advance the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20625/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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The EU Commission published its proposal for a Directive amending the Television Without Frontiers Directive in December 2005. This revision had been brought about by the need to put in place a new regulatory framework for audiovisual services which will take account of advances in technology and market developments over the past decade. The recent Education, Youth and Culture Council, held on the 18th May 2006, was the first opportunity for Member States to discuss this proposal at Ministerial level.

Jurisdiction over Broadcasters along with the application of national rules were amongst the issues raised by Ireland in the Council discussion. Ireland, together with a number of other Member States is concerned about the number of broadcasting services that are regulated in one Member State but are primarily intended for reception in another Member State. Ireland expressed the view that the set of rules that should apply to any broadcasting service should be the broadcasting standards of the Member State that is primarily targeted by that service.

I am aware that Belgium is considering holding a seminar on the jurisdiction issue. Ireland has already indicated to the Belgian Authorities that it would be interested in attending such a seminar should Belgium decide to arrange one. Ireland will continue to work with other Member States and the Commission with a view to progressing consideration of the proposed revised Directive. The approach agreed in relation to jurisdiction will impact on Ireland's position on other elements of the proposal.