Brendan Griffin
Question:246 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if SAORVIEW be provided to old age pensioners free of charge. [32027/11]
View answerWednesday, 2 November 2011
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SAORVIEW is the replacement digital television network for the current analogue network which is near obsolescence. Both SAORVIEW and the current analogue network are free to air. To upgrade to Saorview, TV households will need to purchase a set top box to connect to their existing TV or a new Saorview digital TV. In some cases, depending on the type of aerial and the orientation and age of the aerial, TV households may also need a new aerial. To overcome the challenges that digital switchover brings, I recognise that we must assist people with information and practical assistance to ensure that no one is left behind as Ireland goes digital. I have undertaken to deliver a substantial information campaign providing households with information on the digital switchover and on their options for going digital. This information campaign will be starting this autumn and I will be announcing details in the coming weeks. In conjunction with this, my Department is working to address the particular information and assistance needs of vulnerable households as they prepare to go digital. In this context, the expertise and local knowledge of the many voluntary and charity organisations around the country could be of critical importance in ensuring the success of the switchover process. I have asked my Department to ensure that, to the greatest possible extent, these organisations play a major part in our information and assistance campaign.