Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 July 2012
405 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if TV3 has decided whether it wishes to be carried on the SAORSAT service; if the broadcaster is required to make the decision before the digital switch over happens or if it is allowed to decide thereafter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31713/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraI refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 468 of 22nd May 2012. The position has not changed.
406 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will list the remaining sites in west Cork which are being dropped from the existing analogue system and which to date still do not have access to digital transmission; the position regarding SAORVIEW or SAORSAT in areas (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31714/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraIssues relating to the transmission, coverage and availability of SAORVIEW are an operational matter for RTÉ whose obligations are set out in the Broadcasting Act, 2009. As such I have as no role in these matters, including decisions on sites being used for the provision of SAORVIEW.
I have however been informed by SAORVIEW that overall coverage in County Cork has improved with the introduction of the digital service.
SAORVIEW offers 98% population coverage so by itself fully meets RTÉ's legislative obligations for a replacement national digital TV network to replace the analogue TV network when that switches off on 24 October.
As you are aware, RTÉNL gave a presentation at a special briefing I arranged for Oireachtas members on 21st June 2012. During this briefing the differences between analogue and digital terrestrial transmission were explained, for example, digital uses fewer transmission sites but higher transmission power. Also the fact that it is not possible to provided 100% coverage of digital terrestrial television was explained.
At the same presentation, RTÉNL indicated that SAORVIEW coverage will be further enhanced by the addition of a number of new transmitter sites, including areas of West Cork such as Leap, Bandon, Timoleague, Rosscarbery, Drimoleague, and Mount Gabriel. These sites will be live from October 1st 2012. Further information on coverage is available on the SAORVIEW coverage checker on www.saorview.ie.
The development and provision of SAORSAT satellite platform is a purely commercial decision by RTÉ and not one in which I have a function. Information on SAORSAT, approved SAORSAT equipment, technical specification and information on professional installation is also available on the SAORVIEW website, www.saorview.ie and also on the RTÉ Networks Limited (RTÉNL) website, www.rtenl.ie.
