Following the successful launch of Freeview in the UK, Ireland is planning to set up its own digital multi-channel service.
The Irish Minister for Communications, Dermot Ahern has proposed the introduction of an all-Ireland system that will deliver a significant number of domestic and foreign channels. Customers would merely pay an initial fee of around â‚Ź160 for the service which would also be available in Northern Ireland.
However, there are logistical difficulties with regard to acquiring television rights on both sides of the border. Moreover, cable operators such as NTL and Chorus could oppose the system on the basis that they cannot as yet offer high-speed internet and telephone services that would support monthly subscription models.
