Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Oct 1994

Vol. 446 No. 1

Written Answers. - Encoding of MMDS Channels.

Pat Gallagher

Question:

119 Mr. Gallagher (Laoighis-Offaly) asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the intention of Suir-Nore Relays Ltd. to encode all channels on their MMDS network, including BBC and ITV stations; his views on whether this will entail extra costs to subscribers; his views on whether this action is unhelpful and on whether the costs are excessive; the action, if any, he will take in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1695/94]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Cowen)

I am aware of the proposal referred to. It is my understanding that encoding of channels will not result in an increase in Suir Nore's basic MMDS charge, which is one of the lowest in the country. Encoding of channels is a standard practice of MMDS companies, and has the advantages of reducing interference to other frequency users and the risk of illegal theft of signal, thus helping to keep costs and prices down. I understand that there will be a damage deposit of £25 per decoder.