Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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158. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are serious interference and signal problems on televisions in some rural areas now serviced by SaorView; the steps he will take to rectify this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41777/13]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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RTÉ has built, owns and controls the SAORVIEW TV network and is responsible for the roll-out, coverage and operation of that network. This is in accordance with Part 8 of the Broadcasting Act 2009, which provides that the development of the RTÉ network is an operational matter for RTÉ. Section 130 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 Act also provides that RTÉ must roll out a national digital TV network. In this regard, RTÉ has provided the SAORVIEW network covering 98% of the population and a satellite solution, SAORSAT, for the remaining 2%. The availability of SAORSAT means that the first time in Irish television history there is 100% coverage for domestic TV channels.

In regard to the issue of SAORVIEW reception, RTÉ has confirmed to me that SAORVIEW and SAORSAT have been working well since their installation and launch and have been operating within the expected parameters across the country. Notwithstanding, RTÉ has indicated that over the summer, during periods of high atmospheric pressure, there have been a number of problems with home aerials which were poorly installed, in poor condition, or mis-directed. Issues with home aerials are a matter for householders and RTÉ has advised that reception issues can be resolved by replacing old or reinstalling or re aligning new aerials. 2RN, which runs the SAORVIEW network on RTE's behalf, has informed my Department that a number of re-alignment cases arose in Cork, Kerry, Cavan, Monaghan and Kilkenny. 2RN has indicated that it will investigate and help home-owners resolve any issues that they are having with their SAORVIEW TV reception.