Post by Papa C. on Jul 16, 2008 10:26:58 GMT
from breakingnews.ie
New TV station to be launched
16/07/2008 - 08:06:04
Ireland’s newest television station broadcasting a range of drama, documentaries and current affairs programmes will be officially launched today.
Dublin Community Television (DCTV) will air programmes made by, about and for the capital’s communities and will be Ireland’s only advert-free station.
It will run 24 hours a day on ntl’s Chorus digital service to viewers in 200,000 households across Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Galway and Waterford.
Communications Minister Eamon Ryan said he believes the station will be a success.
“I am particularly pleased to see that the channel will be an additional outlet for programming made with the assistance of the Sound and Vision fund, providing increased viewing options to the people of Dublin.
“The use of innovative digital technology to assist the station’s low-cost operation is remarkable and I have no doubt the channel will be a success.”
The new channel will air drama, documentaries, arts shows, magazine programmes, current affairs, adult education and more – some made by experienced producers, others by community organisations jumping into TV production for the first time.
DCTV was awarded Ireland’s first community television licence in May 2006 and has been broadcasting on a pilot basis since September 2007 on the Chorus ntl digital cable network.
The station is run by a not-for-profit, democratic co-operative, of which membership is open to all – both individuals and not-for-profit organisations.
The station is controlled by its members and most of the programming is created and produced by members.
DCTV chairperson Sean O'Siochru said: “DCTV represents a much-needed and radical new departure in television in Ireland.
“The channel is part of an growing global movement that brings media closer to people and communities, using new technologies to create more varied, alternative and community-focussed broadcasting.”
The Broadcasting Commission of Ireland said the station’s launch underpins the importance of community TV.
“The Commission is delighted to see the launch of this unique service for the people of Dublin and wishes DCTV every success in the years ahead,” chief executive Michael O’Keeffe said.
