Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy's concern about the length of time it is taking to roll out DTT is certainly not echoed by the people involved in the industry. They are happy with the DTT pilot project we have put in place, the first phase of which, the soft trial phase, is coming to an end. The next phase involves a closed public trial and is due to start in the coming month. The results of the trial so far have been positively received.

The technology being used is right up to date, as will be confirmed by BT, NEC or any other company involved if the Deputy wishes to check. However, digital technology changes very quickly and even when the platform is operational there will be ongoing renewals and replacements of equipment.

The pilot is scheduled to finish by August 2008. Once the Bill, which is in the Seanad at the moment, is passed, it will allow BCI to immediately advertise for multiplexes for RTE 1, RTE 2, TV3, if it is interested, and TG4, in addition to the radio channels. I hope the Bill receives the co-operation of Members opposite because the quicker it is passed the better. The Bill also proposes that other commercial enterprises interested in multiplex will also be able to apply to the BCI.

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