RTE channels launch in Northern Ireland after switchover
The completion of the digital switchover has led to the launch of several new Freeview channels in Northern Ireland.
Viewers in the country can now tune in to a number of channels broadcast in the Republic of Ireland, including TG4 and RTE One and Two. RTE Raidio na Gaeltachta has also been added to the free-to-air platform.
It is the first time any of these digital TV services have been available in Northern Ireland without requiring viewers to pay a subscription.
RTE, the Republic's national broadcaster, and Irish-language network TG4 formed a non-profit venture earlier this year to take responsibility for the installation of new digital TV infrastructure across the country.
Communications Minister Ed Vaizey commented: "The UK's switch to digital has been a great success and I'm delighted that TG4 and RTE channels are now available throughout Northern Ireland on Freeview, continuing our delivery on commitments set out in the Belfast agreement."
Completed earlier this week, the UK-wide switchover resulted in the extension of Freeview coverage to 98.5 per cent of the population, allowing an additional four million homes to take advantage of the service.
