Dáil Éireann - Volume 494 - 30 September, 1998

Written Answers - Communications Masts.

Mr. M. Kitt Mr. M. Kitt

414. Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline the background to the agreements between the Office of Public Works and Esat to have mobile telephone masts erected at Garda stations; the basis on which the Office of Public Works enter into these agreements; if these agreements are in keeping with Department of the Environment and Local Government guidelines to planning authorities on the siting of masts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17517/98]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Cullen) Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Cullen)

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Cullen): Esat Digifone is permitted to erect equipment for mobile telephony on masts in certain Garda stations and to site associated equipment in the grounds of the stations under an agreement dated 25 June 1997 between the company and the Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland, the Minister for Justice, now Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Minister for Finance and the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána.

The agreement also provides for the erection of new or replacement masts by Esat Digifone at Garda stations in certain circumstances.

The agreement provides that where the proposed development is not an exempt development under the planning regulations, planning permission must be obtained before any work commences.

The agreement provides for substantial benefits to the State in the form of rental for the use of sites and the provision of facilities and equipment to the Garda Síochána.

Dáil Éireann 494 Written Answers Communications Masts.

Questions

19980930