Michael Bell
Question:28 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands the position regarding the planned introduction of digital terrestrial television; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6803/02]
Written Answers. - Digital Television.
Implementation of the revised arrangements agreed by Government for the introduction of digital terrestrial television or DTT in Ireland, as provided for in the Broadcasting Act, 2001, is ongoing. These revised arrangements provide that the DTT platform will be established by two separate but inter-linked transactions: the separation and sale by RTE of the existing RTE transmission network as a going concern and subject to RTE being able to retain a shareholding of up to 28% in the new entity; and the selection of the DTT multiplex licensee, or the DTT retail business, to be licensed by the Office of the Director of Telecommunications Regulation.
In my reply to Question No. 7 of 8 November last, I outlined my position regarding the process to select the DTT multiplex licence. On the recommendation of the consultants engaged by me to evaluate the proposals, a deadline of 31 January was agreed to fulfil certain conditions relating to financing requirements. On 5 February 2002, the consultants reported the emergence of a credible potential lead investor in the DTT multiplex business and recommended that a further extension be granted to allow that party to complete its due diligence in accordance with a timeframe agreed with the consultants. I have decided to grant the extension of time as recommended by the consultants and the project management group.
Since the beginning of the process that will lead to the sale of a majority stake in the RTE transmission network, I understand from RTE that it has received a number of bids from interested parties in late October 2001. I also understand that in the near future RTE intends to invite second round bids from a number of bidders based on the substantial completion to date of due diligence, management presentation and transaction documentation provided by RTE to bidders. Following the receipt of the revised bids a further short-list will then be determined. My Department is engaged in ongoing regular contact with RTE in relation to the implementation of the Government's objectives for the establishment of the DTT platform.