Magnet applies to run digital television service

DUBLIN-BASED digital services operator Magnet Networks has applied to operate Ireland’s digital terrestrial television (DTT) service.

The new free-to-air television technology is being rolled out across Europe and features additional channels, better quality pictures and new services.

The European Commission is aiming for a complete switch from analogue television to the digital platform within the next six years.

The deadline for applications to the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) for the content management licence was yesterday.

The Government is to run its DTT trial for the next two years — starting from tomorrow. BT Ireland has already been awarded the network service provider licence, which effectively looks after the ‘nuts and bolts’ running of the project infrastructure.

Commenting on Magnet’s application, company director Charlie Ardagh said: “The DTT trial is a sign of what Irish consumers will come to expect of their TV provider. We plan to use this opportunity to showcase our service — with more options, more choices and greater availability of high quality programming than any other rival offer.”

The company has applied for this trial stage — along with a number of other companies, it is understood — with the intention of ultimately becoming a commercial operator of a national system.