Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 184: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proposed digital multiplex system and network service that is currently being put out to tender; if he has reviewed the recent report by the British regulator (details supplied) on the cost and power consumption implications of digital switchover; his plans to undertake a similar study of the implications of digital switchover here; if he has reached a decision on the proposed timeframe for digital roll out and the corresponding analogue switch-off date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34339/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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My Department is currently running procurement processes to develop a digital terrestrial television, DTT, pilot study. There are two key procurement processes. As regards the multiplex and network service provider procurement, pre-qualified tenderers have been asked to submit final tenders for early January 2006. As to transmission equipment, an open procurement process has been announced with tenders also due in January 2006.

I am aware of the conclusions of the cost-benefit analysis of analogue switch-off as developed in the UK. My analysis of all of the implications of a DTT roll out and possible analogue switch-off is ongoing. As the DTT pilot study develops and proposals emerge for a national roll-out of DTT, it is proposed to bring forward detailed proposals as to possible analogue switch-off dates.