Oireachtas To Be Channelled To The People

Irish representatives, (TD's and Senators) could be facing a high level of exposure if plans to give the Republic's Oireachtas its own dedicated TV channel the go ahead.
Following the successful introduction of the BBC Parliament channel in the UK, a delegation from the Irish government will make a visit to Westminster to take a close look at how the televising of the parliament in the UK has been realised.
Responding to a question from Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny, Iirsh Premier, Bertie Ahern told TDs in the Irish parliament (Dail) in November: "I am entirely in agreement on a dedicated television station broadcasting unedited recordings of what happens in the House, although perhaps edited if there is repetition.
"I understand that it would be easy enough for us to do it. Presentations made to Oireachtas Committees would fill many television stations.
"A dedicated television service would help to publicise some of the quality presentations which are made."
Welcoming the Taoiseach's comments, the Fine Gael Leader said: "A dedicated political or Oireachtas channel covering Dail, Seanad and Committee proceedings would be of enormous interest to people and it would be a great public service."
(DW)