Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 June 2005
11 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he anticipates the development of digital television in the future; the way in which he anticipates this to affect the provision of services by RTE and other broadcasters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20013/05]
Amharc ar fhreagra190 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he anticipates the development of digital television in the future; the way in which he anticipates this to affect the provision of services by RTE and other broadcasters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20317/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 190 together.
A migration to digital television is under way in most EU countries. Different technologies apply to the broadcasting of television services and new technologies are emerging all the time. I expect that all television broadcasting will eventually be on a digital basis. This will provide benefits to viewers, including more channels and better quality pictures and sound.
With regard to television broadcasting, Ireland's primary television stations are available throughout the country on a range of platforms including terrestrial, cable-MMDS and satellite platforms. New platforms, such as ADSL, may emerge in time.
Television stations are available on a free-to-air basis through analogue terrestrial transmission. Free-to-air digital terrestrial television is not yet available in Ireland, though provided for under the Broadcasting Act 2001. Over time, the analogue terrestrial network will have to be upgraded to a digital network. In this regard I have asked my Department to develop a digital terrestrial television pilot project this year.
Digital cable-MMDS and digital satellite multi-channel services are currently available in Ireland on a subscription and pay-per-view basis.
RTE and other broadcasters have been reacting to the advent of digital television on an ongoing basis. RTE and other broadcasters are making their services available across a range of platforms. In general broadcasters are seeking ways to distribute, improve and add to their services using new technical and commercial opportunities provided by digital television.
