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TV licensing

Independent national television service  

We initiate the licensing process for the award of a television programme service contract to facilitate the transmission of a national free-to-air television service. This service has statutory obligations in relation to cultural, news and current affairs content that distinguishes it from other television services. The current television programme service contract was awarded to Virgin Media Television Limited in July 2023. 

Content provision contracts

We operate an open (reactive) licensing process for the provision of programming as part of a multiplex or for the purpose of its being transmitted as a broadcasting service in the State, part of the State or elsewhere through an electronic communications network, including a satellite network, an MMD system, a fixed or mobile terrestrial network, a cable television network, an internet protocol television network, or any other form of electronic communications network.  

We have published Guidance and an Application Form for applicants seeking a content provision contract under section 71 of the Broadcasting Act 2009.   

Guidance (PDF)
Application Form (Word)

Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) multiplexes

We have responsibility for the establishment, maintenance and operation of multiplexes in addition to those not maintained and operated by RTÉ.   

Following an unsuccessful licensing process that concluded in 2010, the former Broadcasting Authority of Ireland carried out a review (PDF) in 2013 to consider the prospects for commercial DTT in Ireland. 

This review found that the market conditions were not favourable for the launch of such a service.  The prospects for DTT and other digital models can be considered in the development of Coimisiún na Meán’s future licensing policies to support sustainable, open and pluralistic broadcasting and audiovisual on-demand services which will commence with its review of the Broadcasting Services Strategy in 2025.  

Community television services

We operate the licensing process for community content television services. 

There are currently two services on-air, DCTV in Dublin and CCTV in Cork. 

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