|
 |
|
The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) has assigned access to Rights of Use of Radio Frequencies in the UHF Band for the Development and Implementation of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTTV) Transmission Networks in Malta to Maltacom plc and Multiplus Ltd.
Each operator will be assigned eight channels on lease for a duration of eight years, with the possibility of an extension by a further eight. These assignments came after a process initiated by an invitation to participate in a comparative process that was issued in March 2004. Since demand for frequencies matched supply, consideration of assignments of access to rights of use of frequencies was made after the necessary vetting for compliance of the applications had been completed.
Joseph V Tabone, the MCA Chairman said: “These assignments continue to reinforce the liberalisation process of the electronic communications sector and will result in the proliferation of digital broadcasting services and technologies, thereby increasing competition and extending consumer choice.”
Maltacom and Multiplus will be expected to achieve nationwide coverage of their DTTV transmissions within 18 months of the assignments taking place.
Digital Terrestrial Television will provide clearer pictures, high quality sound and eventually interactivity over a wireless medium. Digital terrestrial television transmissions can be received using a domestic antenna setup and a digital set top box.
|
