Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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479. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will be extending the exemption of the broadcasting charge to those who qualify for the household benefits package; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31743/13]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for the Household Benefit Package falls under the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Social Protection, Ms Joan Burton, TD. This includes issues relating to benefits that arise through the Household Benefits Package such as exemptions from the liability to pay the existing TV licence and the consequent right to a free licence.

That said, I would like to emphasise that the proposed public service broadcasting charge would replace the existing TV licence system and it is my expectation that the current exemptions in relation to pensioners and those entitled to the Household Benefit Package will continue to apply