Committee Reports > List of Committees > Joint > 1998 > Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language > Annual Report of the Joint Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language, 1997-1998

TITHE AN OIREACHTAIS

TUARASCÁIL BHLIANTÚIL

ón gComhchoiste um Oidhreacht agus an Ghaeilge Obair an Chomhchoiste

ANNUAL REPORT

of the Joint Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language

Work of the Joint Committee

1997–1998

TITHE AN OIREACHTAIS

TUARASCÁIL BHLIANTÚIL

ón gComhchoiste um Oidhreacht agus an Ghaeilge Obair an Chomhchoiste

ANNUAL REPORT

of the Joint Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language

Work of the Joint Committee

1997-1998

Table of Contents

1. Content and Format of Report

This report has been prepared pursuant to paragraphs 3, 4, 5 and 6 of Standing Order 79A, Dáil Éireann and paragraphs 3, 4, 5 and 6 of Standing Order 63, Seanad Éireann which provides for Joint Committee reports and work programmes as follows–

•review of its procedure and its role

•annual work programme

•laying minutes of proceedings

•making an annual report.

At its meeting on 10 November, 1998 the Committee agreed that all these items be included in its annual report.

2. Functions and Powers of the Joint Committee

The Joint Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language was established by Order of Dáil Éireann of 13th November, 1997 and Order of Seanad Éireann of 19th November, 1997 as part of a programme of Oireachtas reform involving the refining of the Committee system to enable more detailed examination of Government Departments including–

•public affairs administered by each Department

•legislature and expenditure proposals of each Department

•certain matters relating to bodies under the aegis of each Department.

The Orders of Reference of the Joint Committee were modified by further Orders of Dáil Éireann of 28th April, 1998 (new subparagraph (2)(a)(iv) added) and Seanad Éireann of 30th April, 1998 (new subparagraph (2)(a)(iv) added) and the Orders of Reference of the Joint Committee, as so modified, are set out at Appendix 1.

3. Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Convenors and Membership

Deputy Dónal Carey was elected as Chairman of the Joint Committee on 4 December, 1997. Deputy Brendan Kenneally was elected as Vice-Chairman of the Joint Committee on 4 December, 1997. The Chairman of the Joint Committee is also Chairman of the Dáil Select Committee.

Deputies Donal Moynihan and Dinny McGinley are the Convenors of the Committee whose function it is to ensure the availability and attendance of Members or their substitutes for meetings of the Committee and, in particular, to ensure Members’ availability for divisions.

The Members of the Joint Committee are set out at Appendix 2.

4. Meetings, Attendance and Recording

Meetings of the Joint Committee took place in the Committee rooms in Kildare House. Meetings were in public unless otherwise ordered by the Joint Committee.

Televised coverage of public meetings of the Joint Committee was broadcast live within the Leinster House complex and was available for subsequent public broadcasting by R.T.É.

Verbatim written reports of public meetings of the Select Committee in relation to Bills and Estimates for the Public Services, Vote 41, 42 and 43 were published and may be purchased from the Government Publications Sales Office, Sun Alliance House, Molesworth Street, Dublin 2.

Copies of other reports published by the Joint Committee may be obtained from the Clerk, Joint Committee on Heritage and the Irtish Language, Kildare House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2. A list of these reports at set out at Section 8.

5. Number and Duration of Meetings

The Joint Committee met on 16 occasions in the year under report. The number of hours discussion involved in these meetings was in excess of 17 hours. The date and subject matter of each meeting is set out at Appendix 3.

The Dáil Select Committee met on 3 occasions in the year under report and the number of hours discussion involved in these meetings was in excess of 5 hours. The date and subject matter of each meeting is set out at Appendix 4.

Records of attendance by Members of the Joint Committee and their duly nominated substitutes at meetings of the Joint Committee are set out at Appendix 5.

Records of attendance by Members of the Dáil Select Committee and their duly nominated substitutes at meetings of the Dáil Select Committee are set out at Appendix 6.

Minutes of proceedings of the Joint Committee meeting in public session are attached at Appendix 7.

6. Work of the Committee

6.1 Joint Committee

On the occasions the Committee met it dealt with the following matters:

•Broadcasting in general

•The Digital Revolution

•Teilifís na Gaeilge

•Proposals for a Language Bill

•National Parks

•The Music Industry and Music Rights

•Special Areas of Conservation, Turbary Rights and contiguous matters.

6.2 Dáil Select Committee

On the 3 occasions the Committee met it dealt with the following matters:

•Irish Film Board (Amendment) Bill, 1997

•Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Powers and Functions) Bill, 1997

•Consideration of the 1998 Revised Estimates for Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, Votes 41, 42 and 43.

7. Groups and Individuals attending before Committee

In the year under report the Joint Committee met with the following:

•The Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands

•The Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands

•1 Secretary General

•2 State Bodies

•IBEC

•IMRO

•1 Trade Union Group

•Certain Community Groups

•The Director of Telecommunications Regulation

8. Joint Committee Reports

During the year under report the Joint Committee published the following report:

•Work Programme 1998

9. Work in Progress

(a)Digital Broadcasting

The Joint Committee met with various personae and agencies on this subject and appointed a Rapporteur, Deputy Michael D. Higgins, to prepare a Report. This Report including the conclusions and recommendations of the Committee should be available before year end.

(b)National Parks

The Joint Committee has appointed a Rapporteur, Deputy Enda Kenny, to report on this subject which it is anticipated will be completed by the end of 1998 and made available with the conclusions of the Joint Committee.

(c)Traditional Music

Senator Labhrás O’Murchú was appointed Rapporteur on this subject and his report together with the views of the Joint Committee should be available before the end of the year.

(d)The Voluntary Irish Language Organisation

Deputy Éamon Gilmore is acting as Rapporteur on this subject and his report together with the views of the Joint Committee should be available before the end of 1998.

10. Travel by the Joint Committee

During the period under report a delegation from the Joint Committee went to Stockholm from 29 March to 3 April, 1998 to attend a conference on the Power of Culture and another delegation went on a fact finding visit to California from 16 September to 23 September, 1998 as part of its study of national parks.

11. Function and Powers

The Committee is happy with its present procedures and role.

___________________________

Dónal Carey, T.D.

Chairman of the Joint Committee

November 1998

APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1

Orders of Reference

Dáil Éireann

13th November, 1997, (*28th April, 1998)

(1) (a)That a Select Committee, which shall be called the Select Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language, consisting of 14 members of Dáil Éireann (of whom 4 shall constitute a quorum), be appointed to consider such—

(i)Bills the statute law in respect of which is dealt with by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, and

(ii)Estimates for Public Services within the aegis of that Department,

as shall be referred to it by Dáil Éireann from time to time.

(b) For the purpose of its consideration of Bills under paragraph (1)(a)(i), the Select Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 78A(1), (2) and (3).

(c) For the avoidance of doubt, by virtue of his or her ex officio membership of the Select Committee in accordance with Standing Order 84(1), the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (or a Minister or Minister of State nominated in his or her stead) shall be entitled to vote.

(2) (a)The Select Committee shall be joined with a Select Committee to be appointed by Seanad Éireann to form the Joint Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language to consider—

(i)such public affairs administered by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands as it may select, including bodies under the aegis of that Department in respect of Government policy,

(ii)such matters of policy for which the Minister in charge of that Department is officially responsible as it may select,

(iii)the strategy statement laid before each House of the Oireachtas by the Minister in charge of that Department pursuant to section 5(2) of the Public Service Management Act, 1997, and shall be authorised for the purposes of section 10 of that Act, and

(iv)such other matters as may be jointly referred to it from time to time by both Houses of the Oireachtas,

and shall report thereon to both Houses of the Oireachtas.

(b)The quorum of the Joint Committee shall be 5, of whom at least 1 shall be a member of Dáil Éireann and 1 a member of Seanad Éireann.

(c) The Joint Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 78A(1) to (9) inclusive.

(3)The Chairman of the Joint Committee, who shall be a member of Dáil Éireann, shall also be Chairman of the Select Committee.

Orders of Reference

Seanad Éireann

19th November, 1997, (*30th April, 1998)

(1) (a)That a Select Committee, which shall be called the Select Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language, consisting of 14 members of Dáil Éireann (of whom 4 shall constitute a quorum), be appointed to consider such—

(i)Bills the statute law in respect of which is dealt with by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, and

(ii)Estimates for Public Services within the aegis of that Department,

as shall be referred to it by Dáil Éireann from time to time.

(b)For the purpose of its consideration of Bills under paragraph (1)(a)(i), the Select Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 78A(1), (2) and (3).

(c)For the avoidance of doubt, by virtue of his or her ex officio membership of the Select Committee in accordance with Standing Order 84(1), the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (or a Minister or Minister of State nominated in his or her stead) shall be entitled to vote.

(2)(a)The Select Committee shall be joined with a Select Committee to be appointed by Seanad Éireann to form the Joint Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language to consider—

(i)such public affairs administered by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands as it may select, including bodies under the aegis of that Department in respect of Government policy,

(ii)such matters of policy for which the Minister in charge of that Department is officially responsible as it may select,

(iii)the strategy statement laid before each House of the Oireachtas by the Minister in charge of that Department pursuant to section 5(2) of the Public Service Management Act, 1997, and shall be authorised for the purposes of section 10 of that Act, and

(iv)such other matters as may be jointly referred to it from time to time by both Houses of the Oireachtas,

and shall report thereon to both Houses of the Oireachtas.

(b)The quorum of the Joint Committee shall be 5, of whom at least 1 shall be a member of Dáil Éireann and 1 a member of Seanad Éireann.

(c)The Joint Committee shall have the powers defined in Standing Order 78A(1) to (9) inclusive.

(3)The Chairman of the Joint Committee, who shall be a member of Dáil Éireann, shall also be Chairman of the Select Committee.

APPENDIX 2

Members of the Joint Committee

APPENDIX 3

Meetings of the Dáil Select Committee

APPENDIX 4

Attendance at Meetings of the Joint Committee

* Indicates Member was represented by a substitute

Attendance at Meetings of the Joint Committee (continued)

* Indicates Member was represented by a substitute

APPENDIX 5

Attendance at Meetings of the Dáil Select Committee

* Indicates Member was represented by a substitute

APPENDIX 6

Minutes of proceedings of the Joint Committee

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 4 DECEMBER 1997

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G5, Kildare House at 10.00 a.m. on Thursday, 4 December, 1997.

2.Attendance

Deputies Monica Barnes, Martin Brady, Donal Carey, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Eamonn Gilmore, Mary Hanafin, Brendan Keneally, Dinny McGinley, Olivia Mitchell,

Donal Moynihan, Michael Moynihan, and Pádraic McCormack in substitution for Endaa Kenny.

Senators Enda Bonner, Paschal Mooney, Labhrás O’Murchú and Ernie Caffrey in substitution for Jarlath McDonagh.

Apologies for inability to attend Senator John Connor.

3.Election of Chairman

Deputy Donal Carey was proposed as Chairman by Deputy Dinny McGinley.

As there were no other nominations, Deputy Carey was invited to take the Chair.

4.Election of Vice-Chairman

Deputy Brendan Kenneally was proposed by Deputy Dónal Moynihan. As there were no other nominations Deputy Kenneally was elected Vice-Chairman.

5.Any other Business

(a)The Chairman thanked the Committee for electing him and looked forward to completing a worthwhile work programme with its co-operation. In accordance with its Terms of Reference the Select Committee would consider the Committee Stage of the Irish Film Board Bill, 1997 at its next meeting.

(b)Senator Paschal Mooney sought clarification on the title of the Committee. He suggested that if the title was Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands it would more accurately mirror the Department’s title. The Chairman indicated that the title given was for purposes of brevity and that the titles and Orders of Reference of all Joint Committees had been adopted by both Houses of the Oireachtas. If further clarification was required he would endeavour to provide it.

6.Adjournment

The Joint Committee adjourned at 10.10 a.m. sine die.

___________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

January, 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 27 January, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G5, Kildare House at 2.30p.m. on Tuesday, 27 January, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies: Monica Barnes, Martin Brady, Donal Carey, Michael Collins, Eamon Gilmore, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Olivia Mitchell, Donal Moynihan, Michael Moynihan and Denis Foley in substitution for Pat Carey.

Senators Paschal Mooney and Labhrás O’Murchú.

Apologies for inability to attend Deputy Dinny McGinley and Senators Enda Bonner and John Connor.

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

4.Draft Work Programme

The Chairman reminded Members of the terms of reference of the Committee and that all matters considered must fall within those terms, that all matters considered be reported on to the Houses and that all travel undertaken be in accordance with standing orders. It was agreed that the Joint Committee would meet fortnightly on Tuesdays at 3.00 p.m.

With regard to the draft programme there was a wideranging discussion which eventually agreed and adopted the programme with the following additions

-the major cultural institutions

-digital broadcasting

-a joint meeting with the Joint Committee on Education and Science to hear the views of the Minister for Education on education and the Irish language

-language legislation (Bille na Gaeilge)

-consideration of the Treoir Report including discussions with Bord na Gaeilge and the voluntary Irish language bodies

-Gaelscoileanna

-Music and music education, (including a meeting with IMRO) follow on to PIANO and FORTE Reports

-meeting with IMRO

-the arts in the community

-All-Ireland issues coming within the remit of the Committee and

-the preparation of a position paper for the UNESCO Conference in Stockholm at the end of March.

The Chairman stressed that this programme would be laid before the Houses but that it could be amended should circumstances so dictate.

It was then agreed that digital broadcasting, including a meeting with RTÉ and Bille na Gaeilge should be prioritised. It was also agreed that the Clerk would prepare briefing material on digital broadcasting for the next (10 February) meeting.

Point of Information

Senator Mooney queried the use of Irish in the proceedings of the Committee to which the Chairman responded that contributions could be bilingual. After a discussion it was agreed that simultaneous translation facilities should be provided and that the Clerk should make appropriate enquiries.

Next Meeting

It was agreed to meet on Tuesday 10 February at 3.00 p.m.

6.Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 3.45 p.m.

______________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

February 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 10 February, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2, Kildare House at 3.10 p.m. on Tuesday, 10 February, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies: Monica Barnes, Martin Brady, Donal Carey, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Eamon Gilmore, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Dinny McGinley, Olivia Mitchell, Donal Moynihan, Michael Moynihan and Seán Fleming in substitution for Mary Hanafin.

Senators: Enda Bonner, Jarlath McDonagh, Paschal Mooney and Labhrás O’Murchú.

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

4.Matters Arising

Digital Broadcasting: RTÉ are coming in on 24 February.

Language Legislation: An tAire Stáit is coming in on 10 March, 1998 (to be confirmed)

Simultaneous Translation Facilities: the Clerk has written to the appropriate authorities and is awaiting a response.

RTÉ Reception in Northern Ireland: note from Department circulated today.

IMRO (The Irish Music Rights Organisation) have been approached and they will make a submission to the Joint Committee on 24 March, 1998.

A copy of the Treo Report on voluntary Irish language organisations has been circulated.

5.Contributions in the Irish Language

The remit of the Committee is wider than the original Comhchoiste don Ghaeilge, but the fact that “Irish” is specified in its title is significant. Therefore, no Member should be deterred from contributing in the Irish Language nor any Member from making a bilingual contribution. It would take time to provide a simultaneous translation service.

6.Digital Broadcasting

The Minister’s reply to a recent PQ on this matter represented a wait and see policy. Digital broadcasting is inevitable in one form or another and anyone prepared to pay for a set top box will be able to receive the service from outside the jurisdiction. The cost element will influence the demand from the private sector and RTÉ’s participation. State agencies should pool whatever information they have and the Committee should be made aware of information on the subject.

There is also need to clarify the position of the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands and the Minister for Public Enterprise and Transport in terms of the public network. The expertise of the three-person interdepartmental group should also be consulted.

Many areas of the country do not, at present, have a satisfactory television reception. RTÉ must provide a service not just for high- but also for low-density areas. The decision on whether to choose, terrestrial, cable or satellite has not been made and the choice of one could cut off options in another area. Local advertising could provide the revenue required for the service.

Digitalisation will change the way people relate to TV. RTÉ employs about 2,000 people and the concerns of the unions representing these employees should be heard. Many of these concerns will mirror those of consumer organisations. There is no great demand for this new service. It is being driven by those who wish to exploit consumers. Jobs and industry must be protected by legislation. Consumers could face exploitation in two areas, in the purchase of the hardware and on the pay-per-view system. Irish viewers are being confronted by multi-national companies buying up TV programmes especially sport and then have to pay to see them. The EU are attempting to prevent a Rupert Murdoch monopoly as a service provider. There is no legislative protection for our national games but the Minister is drafting legislation.

Our identity must be a priority. There is a global intellectual and cultural colonisation by those engaged in profit-making. A satellite system would keep our Diaspora in touch with what we call our national identity.

7.Stockholm Conference

This Conference will take place from 29 March to 2 April, 1998 and a formal decision must be taken at the next meeting to comply with CPP rules on Committee travel as well as administrative regulations. The two main themes of the Conference will be the challenges of cultural diversity and reshaping cultural policies. Cultural diversity involves cultural rights and the Bill of Rights for the Irish language, mooted many years ago, is an important part of the Committee’s work. The provision of resources for cultural activities will also be covered and this is linked to provision of arts in the community which is also on our programme. An element of cultural diversity in this country involves music and is of national and international renown. A formal proposal to travel would be put to the next meeting on 24 February 1998.

9.Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 4.20 p.m.

_____________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

24 February 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 24 February, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2, Kildare House at 3.05 p.m. on Tuesday, 24 February, 1998.

2.Attendance

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

4.Matters Arising

A translation service has been provided for the Committee.

5.Presentation by RTE on Digital Broadcasting

The Committee was addressed by Mr. Liam Miller, Managing Director - Organisation and Development, Mr. Peter Branagan, Director of Technology and Mr. Adrian Moynes, Special Assistant to the Director General, who outlined the background to digital broadcasting. The introduction of DTT meant greater choice in the number of channels, improved sound and TV pictures. DTT offers the potential for every home, school, business and community centre to be included in the Information Society.

The best system for Ireland was accordingto RTÉ terrestrial distribution. A set-top box is all the equipment required to decode the signals. The satellite system was possible but would not be in our interests as control would be exercised from outside the country. Viewers would need to buy a dish to receive it.

RTE suggested that both systems could be broadcast simultaneously for a period of seven years to allow for transition. The cost of this transition service would be in the region of £70 million. It was not envisaged that this would be funded by the Exchequer but by the public and private sectors. This consortium would be responsible for establishing marketing and operating the six packages of digital channels which would provide 3-35 channels along with managing the ‘navigation aid’ which provides programming and information for the viewer. Irish DTT would be offered as a set of tiered subscription options with the addition of two Irish pay-per-view services.

Because of the range and variety open to programme producers, DTT is a powerful resource for personal and formal education and community development in the years ahead. If Irish viewers were not offered the benefits of terrestrial broadcast TV sponsored by the State, they would have to look elsewhere for their entertainment and education requirements. A vigorous question and answer session followed.

6.Stockholm Conference

It was agreed that six Members, including the Chairman, accompanied by the Clerk should attend the conference.

7.Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 4.50 p.m.

_____________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

10 March 1998

An Comhchoiste um Oidhreacht agus an Ghaeilge

Miontuairiscí an Chruinnithe 10 Márta 1998

1.Tháinig an Comhchoiste le chéile i seomra G2, Teach Chill Dara ar an Máirt 10 Márta, 1998 ag 3.05 p.m.

2.I láthair

Na Teachtaí Martin Brady, Dónal Carey (Cathaoirleach), Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Éamon Gilmore, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Dinny McGinley, Dónal Moynihan agus Michael Moynihan.

Leathscéal: Monica Barnes agus Olivia Mitchell.

Seanadóirí Enda Bonner, John Connor, Jarlath McDonagh (ionadaí Paddy Burke), agus Pascal Mooney.

Leathscéal: Labhrás O’Murchú.

3.Miontuairiscí

Aontaíodh na miontuairiscí agus síníodh iad.

4.Nithe ag éirí as na Miontuairiscí

Mhínigh an Cathaoirleach an ghá le am a roinnt ar na gnéanna éagsúla den Chlár Oibre agus tuarascálacha chuí a leagan os comhair Tithe an Oireachtais. Dúirt sé chomh maith go mba mhaith an rud é cruinniú a thionól le Bord na Gaeilge faoi reachtaíocht theanga agus b’fhéidir leis na príomh eagrais Ghaeilge.

5.Cur i láthair ón Aire Stáit maidir le Bille Teanga

Dúirt an tAire Stáit go raibh sé sásta go bhfuil gá le reachtaíocht chun dul chun cinn suntasach a dhéanamh maidir le feabhas a chur ar an bhfáil de sheirbhísí i nGaeilge ón státchóras, go háirithe sa Ghaeltacht, dóibh siúd ar mian leo an Ghaeilge a úsáid. Beidh moltaí ó Bhord na Gaeilge agus ó Udarás na Gaeltachta faoin gceist sar i bhfad agus tá iarrtha ar Chomhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge comhordnú a dhéanamh ar mholtaí na n-eagras dheonacha. Dúirt an tAire Stáit go raibh sé ag smaoineamh ar Bhille a thabharfadh deis don Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán rialacháin a dhéanamh i gcomhairle le Airí eile mar is cuí maidir le, mar shampla, seirbhísí áirithe a chur ar fáil trí Ghaeilge sa Ghaeltacht. Bhainfeadh cumhachtaí an Aire le comharthaíocht, fógraíocht agus le seirbhísí daonra agus bheadh áisínteacht ar leith ann le freagracht cur i bhfeidhm na reachtaíochta uirthi. Bheadh Ombudsman ag díriú ag ghearáin ón bpobal.

Chuir na Comhaltaí raon leathan ceist ar an Aire Stáit ansin agus thug sé freagraí uaidh.

6.Athló

Chríochnaigh an cruinniú ag 4.15 p.m.

________________

Dónal Carey, T.D.

Cathaoirleach

24 March 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 24 MARCH, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2 Kildare House at 3.05 p.m. on Tuesday, 24 March, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies Monica Barnes, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Dinny McGinley, Olivia Mitchell, Donal Moynihan and Michael Moynihan.

Senators Enda Bonner, Jarlath McDonagh, Paschal Mooney and Labhrás Ó Murchú.

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

4.Presentation by IMRO

The Committee was addressed by Mr. Hugh Duffy, Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Music Rights Organisation and Mr. Eamon Shackleton, Director of Services. IMRO is an independent organisation owned by songwriters and their publishers established in 1995, prior to that it was a subsidiary of the Performing Rights Society. The public image is seen as collectors of royalties but the private image is the financial contribution to cultural events around the country, approximately £150,000. The Maastricht Treaty has put culture and heritage to the forefront of EU legislation. Ireland has joined with other countries to form the European Music 0ffice which is partly financed by the copyright societies and the EU Commission. The folk tradition in Ireland is very important and portrays the country as youthful, progressive and forward looking. However, the benefits to Irish music are very limited and the economic value of successful local talent accrues to international record companies to whom the artist is signed rather than the country of origin of that artist. With a small number of exceptions, potentially successful Irish acts in the international context will continue to look to the UK or the US for recording contracts. The involvement of multinationals is detrimental to the development of cultural of the country and is market-dominated. In order to counter this, a process of grant aiding and guaranteed funds will aid the creation and dissemination of local music.

Members then raised a number of questions such as the distinction between the commercial aspect and the fact that music is an expression of the people. IMRO is a co-op and any money raised goes, with the exception of administration costs, directly to the writers and creative people involved. The introduction of an Irish music board could look after indigenous music that is culturally rooted in the same way that the Film Board looks after indigenous cinematography that is different from commercially distributed films. The BES scheme should be utilised for those who come through the music board. There is a need for a specific music amendment in relation to the amended copyright law.

The distribution of the Irish market from England will continue as globalisation grows.

5.Adjournment

The Meeting adjourned at 4.20 p.m.

___________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

21 April 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 21 April, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2 Kildare House at 3.03 p.m. in public session and 4.20p.m. in private session on Tuesday, 21 April, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies Monica Barnes, Martin Brady, Donal Carey (Chairman), Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Eamon Gilmore, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Dinny McGinley, Olivia Mitchell, and Michael Moynihan.

Senators Enda Bonner, Finton Coogan*, Paddy McGowan+ and Paschal Mooney.

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

4.Matters arising

The Chairman referred to the invitation to Members of the Committee to lunch with the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht and the Islands, Ms. Síle de Valera, T.D.

5.Presentation by RTE Group of Unions

The Committee was addressed by Mr. John Paul Coakley, Secretary and Ms Vera Price. Mr. Coakley outlined the main issues as:

The funding of a “public space” and universal access.

Technological Considerations.

The new public service “provider”.

Costs and structures.

Competitive considerations.

Community access.

Sovereign control.

Employee involvement.

This was followed by a question and answer session with Members who expressed the views that it would be difficult, given the nature of telecommunications technology, to regulate. The question of broadcasting the proceedings of Dáil Éireann at 3a.m. was also raised.

6.Any other Business

The Committee expressed its concern about the Consultant’s report and felt that it should communicate formally with the ODTR. It was agreed to invite the Telecommunication Regulator to meet with the Committee.

7.Next Meeting

The next meeting was arranged for Tuesday 5 May at 3.00 p.m.

8.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 4.25 p.m.

__________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

5 May, 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 5 May, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2 Kildare House at 3.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 5 May, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies: Noel Ahern* Monica Barnes, Donal Carey (Chairman) Pat Carey, +Conor Lenihan Eamon Gilmore, Mary Hanafin.

Senators: Enda Bonner, Paschal Mooney, Labhrás O’Murchú

Apologies for inability to attend: Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally and Enda Kenny.

Deputy Donal Carey in the Chair

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed.

4.Presentation by IBEC

The delegation consisted of:

Mr. Young gave a brief outline and the other members of the delegation dealt with specific points. He stated that digital television was a major development. We had a small number of analog channels which could transmit on broadcast signals of four or five in most countries. Digital transmission technology would allow for 30 or 40 channels and with MMDS or satellite systems, the number would be hundreds. The UK would soon be commencing on both land based transmitters which would be available in Ireland and on satellite broadcasting through the various Murdoch interests. These channels would take frequencies which could be used for Irish digital broadcasting. There must be an Irish solution so that our broadcasters and content providers are not put at a disadvantage.

Mr. Cummins spoke about the content area. There was a need for a proactive strategy to ensure that Irish content would be maintained. We had an asset in that the English language would enable the sale of products on the international market. We had a well proven reputation in audio-visual products of TV and cinema and we needed to build on that. Funding of quality products for Ireland and from Ireland would become the key issue. RTÉ and Teilifís na Gaeilge spend £90 million on Irish writers, actors, producers and crafts people. This forms the basis of the content industry and it must continue.

This will depend on the licence and support for broadcasting. IBEC recommend that the licence fee should be increased in line with inflation and be reviewed every five or six years. The Government must deploy whatever resources are available from State agencies and the use of the tax code to encourage audio-visual production by the independent sector. There should be more involvement by the Irish Film Board, Screen Training Ireland and Forbairt. Another area of national content would be access to sporting occasions and this must be protected. A new software industry is of major importance and it must be developed in order to reverse the cultural imperialism we receive at present.

Mr. Goan outlined the work of Teilifis na Gaeilge and pointed out that some 200 hours of irish language programmming had been broadcast since its inception. He stressed, in the light of Mr. Cummins’ contribution, that the Irish language was also a national asset. He thought that some early decisions were required at Government level, given the onset of digital broadcasting.

Mr. Doyle said that cable and MMDS industry believe that through their expanding infrastructures they will ultimately be able to provide an alternative national information superhighway accommodating not only digital television but telephony, Internet and other interactive services, with benefits in access, speed of delivery and quality of service. He referred to the Deloitte and Touche report commissioned by the industry which recognised the development of digital cable as a high prioirty and a cornerstone of future competition of telephony and interactive services in urban areas.

Mr. Ennis of TV3 said they supported the consensus approach formulated by IBEC to this area. Technology was merely an enabler which would be driven by content. It was their opinion that all content providers should have fair, equitable and transparent access to these channels and that there would be an element of public process involved.

Mr. Miller said time was of the essence. At a recent audio-visual summit, in Birmingham, President of the European Commission, described Ireland as being among a number of ‘later starters’ in the digital era. This comment was backed by a number of fora, including the Information Society Commission. A comprehensive framework for dealing with the issue of introducing the entire range of digital services must be established. All of Europe’s largest markets are taking steps in digital and we must create a space for ourselves there. If we do this, it could be one of the enduring millennium projects. Teilifís Éireann has shown that in the space of two years, new and different things can be achieved in the sphere of broadcasting and production.

There followed a discussion between Members of the Committee and IBEC which included the following topics:

The result of not establishing a comprehensive framework and the effect on the content aspect if TV3 entered the digital market from the outset.

Commercial vis-a-vis public service broadcasting.

A partnership arrangement by the Government rather than a censorship one in order to protect opportunities from outside interests.

The protection of our national identity.

‘Late starters’ the IBEC view.

Cost.

Broadcasting Regulator - IBEC’s view.

Teilifís na Gaeilge - reception in Falcarragh.

Electronic commerce vis-a-vis digital television and broadcasting.

5.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 4.50p.m.

___________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

3 June, 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING HELD ON 3 JUNE 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2, Kildare House at 12.00pm.

2.Attendance

Deputies: Monica Barnes, Martin Brady, Donal Carey, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Eamon Gilmore, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Enda Kenny,

Senator: Enda Bonner and John Connor.

Deputy Donal Carey in the Chair

3.Glacadh leis agus síníodh na miontuairiscí.

4.Fáiltíódh roimh ionadaithe Theilifís na Gaeilge, Brian MacAonghusa, Cathaoirleach Comhairle Theílifís na Gaeilge, Cathal Goan Ceannasaí Páraic O’Ciardha Leas Ceannasaí Nial Keaveney, Bainisteoir Teicniúil agus Siún ní Raghallaigh, Bainisteoir Airgeadais.

5.Dhein lucht na Teilifíse cur i láthair cuimsitheach ar obair an stáisiuín nua agus luadh go sonrach go raibh. 300,000 ag feáchaint ar na cláracha go dáta, go raibh 94% de theilifiseáin an stáit in ann glacadh léi, go bhfuíl suas le 300 post ins an earnáil closamhairc á gcothú, go mbeadh fadhbanna airgeadais acu ó 1999 ar aghaidh gan maoiniú breise agus do bhí sé sin curtha in iúl don Roinn agus don Aire. Dúradh chomh maith go bhfuíl sé riachtanach go mbeadh ról ag Teilifís na Gaeilge sa chóras digiteach nua ach nach bhféadfadh Teilifís na Gaeilge costais an dá chóraís a sheasamh sa tréimhse idirlinne.

Labhair na comhaltaí, Labhrás O Murchú, Mary Hanafin, Enda Kenny, Éamon Gilmore, Michael D. Higgins, Enda Bonner, Dinny McGinley agus Pascal Mooney agus luadh, inter alia, costais an chóraís Teilifís na Gaeilge, glacadh an chomhartha, craoladh i dTuaisceart Éireann agus déantóirí na gcláracha ón lasmuigh. Léiríodh bá mór don obair a bhí ar siúl agus áth mór don aimsir atá romhainn.

6.Chríochnaigh an cruinniú ag 1.15 p.m.

__________________

Cathaoirleach

17 Samhain, 1998,

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 1 July 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G24 Kildare House at 2.35 p.m. on Wednesday, 1st July, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies Monica Barnes, Martin Brady, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Eamon Gilmore, Brendan Kenneally, Dinny McGinley, Donal Moynihan, Michael Moynihan. Jan O’Sullivan*.

Senators: Enda Bonner, Paschal Mooney, John Connor, Jarlath McDonagh, Paschal Mooney.

Deputy Donal Carey in the Chair

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed and signed.

4.Presentation by Princes Holding/Irish Multichannel

The delegation consisted of Mr. Bart Bonsall, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Sam Warner and Mr. Cormac Hanlon.Before commencing the presentation, Mr. Bart Bonsall, apologised for their non-attendance on the previous occasion, which he said was due to the absence of one of their delegation abroad and his own recent arrival in Ireland which left him unprepared to make the presentation at that time.

The presentation was in the form of slides which outlined their operations in Ireland, based primarily in Limerick and Cork, and their regulatory environment - liberalisation of the telecom market, lifting of deregulation and European Directives. Their market strategy included the provision of computers for business and Entertainment and the Internet for commerce; increasing network capacity; introducting a package of services including the launch of digital services at the end of 1998 and 1st quarter of 1999; computer telephone services, including lower prices, improved features and improved variet of business services; programme sourcing. They did not want to become involved in the production of local programming but if there was a gap in the market, they would try to fill it.. The overall benefits to the economy was an increase in the numbers employed from 200 to 1000 and to the consumer, lower prices and greater flexibility. The risks in their operation were uncertainty - restrictive investment, timing - lost initiative and market fragmentation - inequality, not a level playing pitch.

This presentation was followed by a question and answer session with Members. Questions raised included the issue of MMDS licences in ’98 in the areas of operation and if the company intended renewing the present licences after 10 years; whether Cable Management was part of the group; the quality of reception of MMDS vis-avis Limerick and Cork areas and the southern part of the country and if having a more extensive network was correspondingly more expensive. the market position with Cablelink and negotiations with illegal deflectors in the Mayo, Donegal areas; the company’s position on sourcing of local programmes; the positioning of masts on visually sensitive areas; the high cost for having more than one TV; the percentage increase in MMDS over the last four years; promotion packages sponsored by local contributors. educational programming;

5.Adjournment

The Committee agreed that the last meeting before the summer recess would take place on Tuesday, 7th July at 3.30pm

___________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

7 July, 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 7 July 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Private Session in Room G24 Kildare House at 3.40 p.m. on Tuesday, 7th July, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies Monica Barnes, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Eamon Gilmore, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Dinny McGinley, Donal Moynihan and Brendan Smith*.

Senators: Enda Bonner, John Connor, Jarlath McDonagh, Paschal Mooney and Labhrás Ó Murchú

Deputy Brendan Kenneally in the Chair

3.Minutes

The minutes of the previous meeting were agreed and signed.

4.Selection of Rapporteurs

The Vice-Chairman outlined the arrangements for the selection and funding of reports to be undertaken by Rapporteurs. The Rapporteurs would receive an allowance which would be taxable and pensionable. The allocation for this year was £8,000. The details of the scheme were proposed as follows:

The Clerk to the Committee explained that the Rapporteurs would carry out an examination of their topic and then present it to the Committe which would then form its own conclusions before a formal report would be laid before both Houses. It was hoped that these reports would be laid before both Houses before the end of the year. Part payment would be made on an outline of the report and the balance paid on completion.

After some discussion, it was decided, on a show of hands, that it would be more appropriate to proceed with the first four topics at the sum of £2,000 each in order to avoid eight reports being presented at the one time. This would give more time for their consideration by the Committee. It was agreed that the other four nominees would undertake their projects next year with a sum of £2,000 each.

5.Any other business

Senator Paschal Mooney raised the possibility of the Committee visiting an exhibition of digital broadcasting and inter-active TV by Princess Holdings.

6.Adjournment

The Committee agreed that this would be the last meeting before the Committee’s summer recess. The next would take place on Tuesday, 15 September, 1998.

___________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

8 September, 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 8 SEPTEMBER, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2 in Kildare House at 2.30pm

2.Attendance

Deputies: Monica Barnes, Martin Brady*, Donal Carey, Pat Carey, Eamon Gilmore, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Dan Neville**, Donal Moynihan, Michael Moynihan.

Senators: J. Costello***, John Connor, Jarlath McDonagh, W. Farrell****, Labhrás O’ Murchú.

Apologies from Deputy Olivia Mitchell

3.In the absence of the Chairman and the Vice Chairman, Deputy Enda Kenny took the chair in an acting capacity.

4.The minutes were approved and signed.

5.In Public Session

The main business of the meeting was a presentation by Dúchas on National Parks and Brendan Scully and Michael Canney, officials of Dúchas were welcomed to the meeting. It was explained that Dúchas, The Heritage Agency is divided into three sections: The Natural Heritage Section which deals with parks and wildlife, nature reserves and the various related E.U. Directives; the built heritage such as national monuments and historic buildings and a section which deals with heritage centres, education on heritage and various publications. This third section obviously encompasses elements of the first two. With regards to National Parks there are five up and running: Killarney, Glenbeich, Connemara, the Burren and Wicklow Mountains National Park. The parks are managed under the State Authorities (Development and Management) Act 1993 and the service manages the nature reserves under the Wildlife Act, 1976. The service is also party to a number of international conventions, the Washington convention on Control of International Trade in Endangered Species, the Berne Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats of Endangered Species, the Bonn convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals and the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance alongside the E.U. Birds and E.U. Habitats Directives.

A discussion followed in which Senator Connor, Deputy Hanafin, Deputy Neville, Deputy Michael D. Higgins, Deputy Kenny and Deputy Barnes participated. Among the matters raised were turbary rights and inadequate compensation, SACs, built heritage, old monuments in decay, access for walkers and hikers, maintenance of monuments, conservation led heritage programme, signs and information relating to buildings, staffing resources for the service, the difficulties of conservation versus tourism and songbirds.

6.The meeting concluded at 3.55pm.

November 1998

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 29 September, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G24 at 3.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 29 September, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies Monica Barnes, Michael Brady, Pat Carey, Seán Ardagh in Substitution for Michael Collins, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Olivia Mitchell and Donal Moynihan.

Senators: Enda Bonner, John Connor, Paschal Mooney and Labhrás Ó Murchú

Apologies from Michael Moynihan.

Deputy Donal Carey in the Chair

3.Presentation by the Minister for Art, Heritage, Gaeltachta and the Islands

The Chairman welcomed Minister De Valera and her officials and invited her to commence her presentation on her broadcasting proposals.

The Minister referred to the growth of broadcasting services in Ireland which had taken place against a background of an explosion in the number of non Irish broadcasting services now available either by terrestrial means or by satellite. We are now however in the throes of a technological resolution which is distinguished by the sheer face of change. The Minister explained that there were four main elements to her legislative proposals for broadcasting i.e.

-the statutory arrangements for the introduction of digital broadcasting services, in particular Digital Terrestrial Television, and structures for the regulation of broadcasting services from a broadcasting and cultural perspective across all platforms;

-powers to enable the establishment of Teilifís na Gaeilge as a separate statutory entity;

-honouring the commitments in the Action Programme for the Millennium in respect of independent local radio; and

-the amendment of the provisions of the Broadcasting Authority (Amendment) Act, 1993 relating to the amount which RTE must make available for programmes commissioned from the independent production sector.

The Minister stated that the Government had accepted her contention that DTT should be the digital infrastructure provider and have largely accepted RTE’s suggestions that it should enter into a partnership for the provision of transmission and technical facilities for digital broadcasters in Ireland. The Minister has no plans for the early shutdown of the existing analogue services.

The Minister intends to provide for the establishment of a new body which will incorporate the existing roles and functions of the I.R.T.C. and the Broadcasting Complaints Commission. This new body will develop and determine broadcast programme and advertising standards. RTE, Teilifís na Gaeilge and TV3 will have guaranteed access to the new DTT infrastructure at equitable rates.

In terms of local radio the Minister will provide for the establishment of a once off £500,000 fund to assist local radio operators, particularly those with difficult terrain to cover with transmission costs and the commitment to abolish the 3% levy will be honoured.

The Minister referred to the ongoing dispute between RTE and the independent film producers in respect of the availability of funds by RTE in independent productions in 1999 and announced that £16m would be the amount for 1999.

The new legislation will provide the Minister with enabling powers to establish Teilifís na Gaeilge as a separate Statutory entity - which process is likely to take place in a couple of years time.

The Minister also announced that she was in the process of drawing up separate legislation for the protection of free to air broadcast coverage of important sporting events incorporating the provisions of Article 3A of the Television without frontiers Directive into Irish law.

A question and answer session followed.

4.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 4.35p.m.

_____________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

October, 1998.

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 13 October, 1998

1.The Joint Committee met in Room G2 at 3.05 p.m. on Tuesday, 13 October, 1998.

2.Attendance

Deputies Michael Brady, Donal Carey, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Dinny McGinley, Olivia Mitchell, Donal Moynihan, Denis Naughten and Michael Kitt in substitution for Michael Moynihan.

Senators: Paschal Mooney.

Apologies: Monica Barnes and Labhrás O’Murchú

Deputy Donal Carey in the Chair

3.The Chair assured Senator Mooney that the question of a demonstration of digital television was being actively pursued. It was agreed not to meet on October 27 in the Committees’ usual slot as the Dáil would not be sitting. The rapporteurs were reminded of the impending deadline for their work i.e. mid December at the latest.

The main business of the meeting which had been requested by Senator John Connor was the special areas of conservation and the Senator introduced a disparate group including, inter alia, representatives from the SAC Action Group Alliance (Galway, Roscommon and Offaly), Mountbellew Bog Action Group, the Connemara Limestone Pavement Group, the Rivir Suck Callows Action Group, Bog Action Groups and a Wind Turbine Action Group.

The SAC Groups and the Bog Action Groups complained bitterly about the way they were being treated under the Habitat Directive and were derisory of the compensation which had been offered to them. They also strongly defended their rights to cut turf and emphasised that they knew far more about local flora and fauna than any officials either from Dublin or Brussels.

With regard to the Wind Turbine issue the Chairman explained that it was not within the remit of the Joint Committee and that it was more appropriate to the Joint Committee on Public Enterprise and Transport. After an extensive series of questions the meeting concluded with an agreement that the Minister and her officials be invited to appear before the Joint Committee to respond to the various points made by the delegation.

4.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 4.25p.m.

_____________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

November, 1998.

Ref: HI28/02/04/01

JOINT COMMITTEE ON HERITAGE AND THE IRISH LANGUAGE

MINUTES OF MEETING OF 10 November, 1998

The Joint Committee met in Room G2 at 3.05 p.m. on Tuesday, 10 November, 1998.

Attendance

Deputies Monica Barnes, Donal Carey, Pat Carey, Michael Collins, Mary Hanafin, Michael D. Higgins, Brendan Kenneally, Enda Kenny, Dinny McGinley, Donal Moynihan and Micheal Moynihan.

Senators: Paschal Mooney and Labhrás O’Murchú

Apologies: John Connor and Jarlath McDonagh.

Deputy Donal Carey in the Chair

1.Minutes were agreed and Signed.

2.Annual Report: it was agreed that the Clerk should draw up a draft report detailing work carried out work in progress and including Minutes of proceedings and a Work Programme. Items for inclusion in the Work Programme should be communicated to the Clerk by 13 November and matters not dealt with in the current year would be carried forward.

In addition rapporteurs were reminded of the imminence of the deadline (15 December, 1998) for reporting.

3.Strategy Statement

After initial dissatisfaction was expressed by Members at the proposed timeframe for debate on this subject it was agreed to sit until 4.50pm and if necessary to recall the Witness on another day.

The Secretary General, Tadhg O hÉalaithe made a comprehensive presentation with the focus on strategic rather than operational matters. Among the matters covered were the Mission Statement of the Department, the mandate of the Department such as heritage and culture and the provision of appropriate institutional and support frameworks, the promotion and development of the offshore islands.

The Secretary General explained that the purpose of the Statement is to assist management and staff in focusing on the major goals to be achieved and to provide the backdrop against which the divisional and section Business Plans can be drawn up. He emphasised in terms of Key Challenges that the issue of resources, especially staff resources were crucial to the success of both the SMI process and the overall operation of the Department. He specifically instanced the absence of a full I.T. Unit in the Department and that there were considerable deficiencies in the software employed across the Department.

The Secretary General concluded with the hope that with the continuing goodwill and cooperation of staff the aim of delivering the Departments services as efficiently and as effectively as possible in order to achieve their stated mission. A vigorous question and answer session followed in which Deputies M.D. Higgins, Enda Kenny, Mary Hanafin and Senators Labhrás O’Murchú and Pascal Mooney as well as the Chairman contributed. Among the topics covered were staff resources, lack of an integrated I.T. system, voluntary organisations, the Irish Language and cross border development.

The Joint Committee then noted the Strategy Document and agreed to formally report accordingly to the Houses of the Oireachtas incorporating a transcript of the proceedings.

4.Adjournment

The Committee adjourned at 5.00 p.m.

_____________________

DONAL CAREY T.D.

Chairman

November, 1998.

APPENDIX 8

Oireachtas Committee on Heritage and the Irish Language

Work Programme 1999

Work Programme

Broadcasting

General Broadcasting issues such as Teilifís na Gaeilge and the role of television in the local as opposed to the global comme

Offshore islands and an Islands Authority

Ferry Services to the offshore islands are essential to their social and economic viability. What plans are being drawn up for such basic services for all of our island communities? Is there a role for private investment in this section and what is the experience abroad? Is there a need for an Islands Authority linking all the islands of Ireland.

Archaeological Conservation/National Monuments

Can we learn from the experience in other jurisdictions? Is our archaeological heritage being marketed appropriately as an element of cultural tourism? Is the right balance being struck between access and conservation? What about security?

Millennium Celebrations/Events

The Joint Committee could take the view that the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands should have a pivotal role in relation to the millennium celebrations. If the Minister does have such a role the Joint Committee could have recommendations to make to her. If as is more likely the events are determined by a Millennium Commission the Joint Committee might wish to meet with it and put forward its recommendations.

Irish Language Issues such as Gaelscoileanna and the decline of the spoken language.

The establishment of a scholarship scheme (initially on a pilot basis) to enable students from the U.S. at all levels of competence in the Irish Language to attend Irish courses such as those offered by Oideas Gael, Áras Mháirtín Uí Chadhain and Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne.

The arts in the community

All-Ireland issues coming within the remit of the Committee especially those arising from the Good Friday Agreement.

Rural Theatre, Gaelscoileanna and Music and Music Education.

Policy/Administration

–Strategy Statement of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands

(a)Policy with Minister/Minister of State;

(b)Administration with Secretary General/designated Officer.

–Policies of Bodies under the aegis of the Department.

Such other matters as may be referred by both Houses.

Such other matters under the Orders of Reference of the Joint Committees as it may decide.

Travel as necessary in the context of a matter for consideration subject to Standing Orders.

Dáil Select Committee

Consideration of:

–Bills referred to the Committee by Dáil Éireann;

–Estimates for Public Services within the aegis of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands.

The items listed for consideration in the programme are not in any order of priority as a timetable would impose rigidity and preclude us from responding to ongoing events. If necessary, therefore, this programme may be amended during the year to allow for new matters arising and such an amended programme shall be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas.

* In substitution for Senator Jarlath McDonagh

+ In substitution for Senator Labhrás O’Murchú

* In substitution for Deputy Martin Brady

+ In substitution for Deputy Michael Collins

* In substitution Michael D. Higgins

* In substitution for Martin Brady.

* In substitution for Deputy Martin Brady

** In substitution for Deputy Dinny McGinley

*** In substitution for Senator Enda Bonner

**** In substitution for Senator Paschal Mooney