asked the Minister for Communications when applications will be invited for licences under the multichannel microwave distribution system as recently announced.
Written Answers. - Multipoint Microwave Distribution Systems.
34.
My Department are currently finalising as a matter of priority a national frequency plan, system specifications and regulatory regime for the introduction and operation of multipoint microwave distribution systems (MMDS) which will be used for providing a greater choice to television viewers in areas not served or unlikely to be served by cable systems.
Before applications to operate such systems are invited, it is envisaged that pilot schemes in selected areas will be authorised in order to test the systems in the field and iron out any technical difficulties that may arise. While I hope that rapid progress will be made with the introduction of MMDS, I would be reluctant to give a definite timescale at this stage.