Process Inviting Content Providers for DTT Trial begins


Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey T.D., announced on the 29th June that the process of   seeking applications from persons interested in participating in the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) Pilot in Ireland had begun.
Submissions are sought from interested parties who may wish to become Multiplex Programme Content Managers and to supply programme content to the DTT trial.
Produces of such content as television and radio services as well as data applications and new technologies are encouraged to submit applications.
“This latest step in the implementation of the pilot provides an opportunity to potential content providers to take part in Ireland’s first DTT trial,” said Minister Dempsey. “The trial can highlight the issues involved in providing a DTT service with quality channels and new, innovative content, to Irish viewers.”
“This process provides an opportunity for interested parties to explore the possibilities around the market case for a full roll-out. The Department is open to suggestions from content providers on the types of broadcasting services which can be tested and trialled,” concluded Minister Dempsey.
  The DTT pilot is currently in the build phase and is expected to be operational by mid-August 2006. It is planned to continue the pilot over a two-year period, during which time broadcasts will transmit from the Three Rock site in Dublin and the Clermont Carn site in County Louth.
The Pilot can be seen as a precursor to a national rollout of DTT services.
Source: Irish Ministry press release
Item added: 11th July 2006