RadioWaves.FM Monday 20th June 2005
INTERNATIONAL: RTÉ in a position to adopt DRM

Lobby group Irish Overseas Broadcasting are claiming that Ireland are now in a position to introduce DRM digital broadcasting that will serve not only home interests, but also those interested in Irish affairs abroad. Enda O'Kane, who is a former RTÉ Technical Representative, claims that financial constraints are preventing our national broadcaster from exploring the full benefits that DRM digital radio can provide.

"The excitement of the possibility of listening to our national culture across Europe is really a dream," says Enda. "Our FM signals are of adequate level across the island, unlike the situation in the UK, so I don't see the need for RTE to spend .15M on DAB when we have no [portable] radio service into Europe."

For the uninitiated, Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) is a revolution in long-distance radio transmission. It allows international radio broadcast in digital at a high fidelity, similar to that of FM. The technology is designed to fit on the AM band and is more than just an audio service. DRM can carry text and graphics and is enabled to carry real-time internet pages along with programmes. It is also capable of covering large distances - much larger than conventional AM signals.

"What this means," Enda says, "is that you can stay tuned to our national broadcaster on a long-distance journey between Ireland and - say - North Africa."

Seanad Éireann - Volume 149 - 04 December, 1996
Telecommunications (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, 1996: Report Stage.

Mr. Mooney: I move amendment No.1: In page 4, between lines 29 and 30, to insert the following: .(6) The Radio Plan shall include provision for the creation of a short wave radio station..
...
Notwithstanding the impressive technical innovations that RTÉ is pursuing, the question of short wave is a live issue and has gathered momentum. In this respect I acknowledge the fine work undertaken by my friend and colleague from County Mayo, Michael Cummins. He held a seminar there within the past 12 to 18 months at which he brought together the various technical experts in this area.

If this service were to be proceeded with, RTÉ would be the main provider. I have been informed by RTÉ that there are no technical objections to the signal or to the establishment of a short wave radio station. The technical expertise available to me from the Department confirmed this view although I have also been advised that, in practical terms, technical advancements such as radio and satellite transmission have overtaken this dimension in radio broadcasting. Nevertheless, short wave is still a viable option.

If RTÉ is not prepared to initiate this process, which it is capable of doing, perhaps providers in the marketplace would see a commercial viability in establishing a short wave station in which they could sell air time. A great attraction of short wave is that it provides global access, even though there are different frequencies. Anybody who listens to the BBC World Service when abroad realises that a variety of frequencies are advertised. In fairness to the BBC, it has several publications providing technical information and which are subscribed to by its worldwide listening audience. It would not, therefore, be beyond a provider's capacity to publicise the same type of information for potential listeners.

The argument for short wave radio has been well made and has not diminished because of opinions expressed to me since Committee Stage. Short wave radio will remain viable until such time as there is a blanket cable coverage. It is one of the best options for use by the widespread Irish diaspora. [862]

RTÉ operates a short wave frequency in various parts of Africa and the Far East for specific programmes, such as the All Ireland Football and Hurling Finals. They operate short wave frequencies when required, as they see fit. They do it already, it is capable of being done, and in the absence of an initiative from RTÉ . which has indicated it will be a costly exercise . an independent provider might be prepared to apply for the franchise. As the Minister indicated, there would be no objections within his Department to an application from an independent operator. However, that is not to say the applicant would succeed. I have reintroduced this amendment on Report Stage because in the [862] period since Committee Stage, important technical information has become available to help us form this opinion. The radio plan should include provision for the creation of a short wave radio station.

I extend a warm welcome and congratulations to the newly appointed Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications, Deputy Dukes. My colleague, Senator Daly, and I have come to know, love and have great affection for him . if that is possible . over the last 12 to 18 months. He was . perhaps he still is, technically . Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and we benefited greatly from his erudition and elaboration on subjects in that area. The committee's loss is the nation's gain.