Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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Question 15: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his estimate of the likely cost to consumers of the proposed migration to digital broadcasting; if he intends to issue a White Paper or review on the digital switch over and the implications for Irish broadcasters and viewers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8199/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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A migration to digital broadcasting is under way in most EU countries. Different technologies apply to the broadcasting of television and radio services and new technologies are emerging all the time.

With regard to television broadcasting, Ireland's primary television stations are available throughout the country on a free to air basis through analogue terrestrial transmission. Free to air digital terrestrial television is not yet available in Ireland, although it is provided for under the Broadcasting Act 2001. Over time, the analogue terrestrial network must be upgraded to a digital network.

In the United Kingdom, customers switching from analogue to digital terrestrial television need to purchase a set-top box. These boxes cost approximately €60 for a basic model, with more expensive models available. The cost of the set-top box is the primary cost affecting viewers migrating from analogue to digital terrestrial television services and similar costs are likely to apply in Ireland.

Digital cable/MMDS and digital satellite multi-channel services are currently available in Ireland, on a subscription and pay per view basis. Chorus, ntl and Sky are the principal operators offering digital television services and all charge various viewers on an ongoing basis, generally based on a monthly subscription. Customers choosing subscription based digital television services in a migration to digital television will need to meet the charges placed by the providers.

I am currently reviewing options for the development of digital terrestrial television in Ireland. In this regard, I have asked my Department to develop a digital terrestrial television demonstration project this year. As the digital terrestrial television demonstration is developed I will outline my intentions regarding possible dates for a switch over from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasts. Digital radio transmissions are provided in some countries through the digital audio broadcasting format, DAB. I will examine possibilities for the development of DAB services and trials in the coming year.