RTE also operates a code of standards which reflects its concern with matters of taste and decency in programme material. This document, entitled "Programme-Makers' Guidelines", is available on the RTE website - www.rte.ie/about - or from RTE directly. As I have stated in previous communications, RTE also has obligations on religious matters which are governed by the Broadcasting Acts. Acceptable standards can change over time and great care is taken to be sensitive to our audience. H
Sir, - Vera Hughes (October 1st) says that RTÉ "religiously and frequently gives liberal airtime to party political broadcasts" and contrasts this with the legislative controls put in place for religious advertising.
Party political broadcasts are, in fact, carefully regulated. RTÉ is permitted under broadcasting legislation to carry party political broadcasts. The airtime is provided free of charge by RTÉ and is based on the first-preference vote at the previous general election to facilitate fair access to the airwaves. This ensures that the democratic process is protected and that such access is not determined by the ability to buy airtime.
Regarding the standard of films shown by RTÉ, I would like to assure readers that all films are assessed and categorised by a panel of programme acceptance viewers, scheduled according to their content and clearly coded to guide the audience. When RTÉ broadcasts, it acts as a publisher with legal obligations and also carries statutory duties and responsibilities that are unique to RTÉ as a radio and television broadcaster.
DEIRDRE HENCHY,
Corporate Information
Manager,
RTÉ,
Dublin 4.