Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

As I stated recently in response to a previous question on the issue, I am not prepared to speculate on the outcome of the commercial DTT process, which is a matter for the BAI. Nor am I prepared to surmise on the ongoing negotiations between the BAI, RTE and the OneVision consortium. I have, however, made clear my opinion that I would like to see this process concluded as soon as possible. The conclusion of the process is essential to provide certainty for broadcasters, suppliers and the general public with regard to the development of commercial DTT services.

Under section 129 of the Broadcasting Act 2009, RTE is required to ensure that free-to-air DTT is available to approximately 90% of the population on such date as may be specified by the Minister. I signed an order last week specifying this date as being 31 October 2010. The Act also requires RTE to provide a national free-to-air digital service with capacity to carry RTE 1, RTE 2, TG4 and TV3 by the end of 2011 or such later date as I may specify. I have written to RTE informing it that the date for provision of a national service is 31 December 2011.

My policy objective is the earliest possible switch-off of the analogue television system operated by RTENL and it is my intention that this will be no later than quarter four of 2012.

See this speech in context