Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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22. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his position on the recently completed external report on the viability of digital terrestrial television; and if he will meet the chairman of the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland to discuss the findings of the report. [4116/14]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Section 131(4) of the Broadcasting Act obliges the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland to endeavour to arrange for the establishment, maintenance and operation of three national television multiplexes capable of being transmitted by digital terrestrial means to the whole community of the State.

Following the unsuccessful process for licensing a commercial DTT operator in 2009/2010, the Authority decided to re-examine the potential for commercial DTT on completion of the Digital Switch Over in late 2012.

The Authority was assisted in its review by independent consultants, Oliver & Ohlbaum Associates. The resultant report analyses market conditions, including interviews with a range of stakeholders with an interest in the development of commercial DTT in Ireland. In exploring the prospects for commercial DTT, the review considered a number of possible business models, including a free service, a pay service and a service operated as part of a triple play bundle.

I am disappointed with the findings of the report in regard to the prospects for commercial DTT in Ireland but it is reflective of the persistent difficult economic circumstances facing the broadcasting sector and indicative of the range and availability of pay per view offerings. However, I recognise the on-going need to provide a varied and relevant range of free-to-air services for the Irish population and I and my Department will continue to work with the BAI and other stakeholders in this regard.