Digital switch ‘a huge step forward’

More than half a century of Irish TV technology was yesterday consigned to history with the switch to a solely digital service.

In a move that brings the country into line with most of western Europe, state broadcaster RTÉ turned off the analogue technology for the last time at 10am.

RTÉ star Miriam O’Callaghan turned off the signal in Dublin. Earlier, at midnight, 1972 Olympic heroine Mary Peters turned off the analogue system in the North.

At RTÉ’s headquarters in Montrose, the importance of the technology change was not lost on those involved, who insisted the switch to entirely digital TV was a huge step forward for this country.

Digital TV will allow for clearer screens, shows on demand, new channels, interactive TV options and the ability to listen to the radio from the television.

It replaced an outdated system still used in 250,000 homes, until recently, where screens could be interrupted by poor signals and “snow” on the screen. Tens of thousands have, reportedly, yet to make the switch meaning their TVs no longer work.

Communications Minister Pat Rabbitte, meanwhile, said the changeover should be seen as a major success.

“What we are doing here ensures people will continue to have access to free-to-air television, providing a full range of services with a strong national voice.

“Undoubtedly there are still some people who have not made the switch and we will continue to offer advice to those who need it.”

Turning to RTÉ journalist Mary Kennedy — who was presenting a live show to mark the event and had earlier reminisced about having to “tweak the rabbit ears” to get reception as a child — the minister added: “Thank you Mary, and you can tweak my ears any time.”

* Further information on the new RTÉ services are available at www.saorview.ie or lo-call 1890 222012.

Independent information is available from the Department of Communications’ website www.goingdigital.ie or helpline 1890 940980.

TVs stolen

Gardaí are investigating the theft of €150,000 worth of televisions from a Harvey Norman branch.

Detectives believe up to four men were involved in the theft from the branch at Eastgate Retail Park, Little Island, Co Cork.

They made off with a substantial number of flat screen Saorview-approved televisions, some of which are worth nearly €3,000.

A Garda spokesman said they targeted Sony, Samsung and LG makes. They ranged in size from 19 up to 55 inches.

Gardaí say the thieves broke into the store sometime between 9pm on Oct 22 and the early hours of the following morning.

“They may have spent quite some time in the place selecting what they wanted before leaving,” a Garda spokesman said.

He said gardaí had carried out a full forensic examination of the scene and were also examining CCTV footage. “This is valuable merchandise and we suspect attempts will be made to sell them on quickly because there will be demand for Saorview-approved televisions. We are anxious to hear from any member of the public who may be offered flat screen televisions at a knock-down price, or from an unusual source.”

* Information can be given to either Cobh Garda Station at 021 4908530, or Glanmire Garda Station 021 4821002.

— Sean O’Riordan