A digital TV pilot scheme is to be introduced to Ireland, announced The Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey.
Digital TV, known as digital terrestrial television (DTT), offers the high quality reception of satellite or cable and can allow users internet access. Viewers do not require a satellite dish and don’t need to live in area where cable connections are already available. DTT also utilises existing television transmitters and towers.
"Most countries in Europe are starting to switch over from analogue terrestrial transmission," the minister said. "DTT can provide much more to the free-to-air viewer, improve the quality of service and allow innovative new services."
Mr Dempsey’s department has been planning the DTT pilot for a number of months and various procurement packages are being put together to implement it.
The first process is now underway with the department seeking expressions of interest relating to the technical aspect of service provision.
Mr Dempsey said that initial digital broadcasts will transmit from the Three Rock site in Co Dublin and the Clermont Carn site in Co Louth.