Television Reception

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 October 2012

Tuesday, 16 October 2012

Questions (392)

Michael McCarthy

Question:

392. Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to incidences in County Donegal whereby RTE teletext is not available without a Saorview box, which is contrary to what is being communicated through public information adverts which state that a set-top box is not required if a household has access to SKY television or UPC; if he will clarify whether or not RTÉ Teletext is available without a Saorview box; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44632/12]

Written answers

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

In relation to the availability of the Aertel teletext service, RTÉ must agree terms with individual network operators for retransmission of this service.

In relation to these services on UPC, I have been informed that RTÉ and UPC have agreed terms and are working together to make the Aertel teletext service available across all UPC digital customers. It is hoped the service will be ready to go live in November 2012.

In relation to UPC’s analogue customers (who are unaffected by the digital switchover), RTÉ will continue to make its analogue Aertel service available.

In relation to SKY, I have been informed by SKY Ireland that SKY has not carried the RTÉ teletext (analogue) service since RTÉ joined the platform in 2002.

According to RTÉ, terms have not been agreed with SKY in regard of broadcast of Aertel Digital.