Radio Spectrum
Licence Types
Radio
Licences containing rights of use to spectrum in respect of analogue and digital radio services are issued to RTÉ and the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI); see the Broadcasting Act 2009.
If you are an independent body and wish to broadcast radio services you should contact the BAI. Further information for digital services is available on our Digital Broadcasting page.
TV
TV Broadcasting
Licences containing rights of use to spectrum in respect of analogue and digital terrestrial TV services are issued to RTÉ and the BAI under the Broadcasting Act 2009. Further information for digital services is available on our Digital Broadcasting page.
TV Retransmission (UHF Television Programme Retransmission systems/"Deflectors")
Licences containing rights of use to spectrum in respect of programme retransmission systems are issued under the Wireless Telegraphy (UHF Television Programme Retransmission) Regulations 2006. These licences are subject to annual renewal and authorise the operation of retransmission stations utilising a maximum of four UHF frequency channels in respect of any single location. The provisions of these licences may be viewed in Document No. S.I.445of2009.
The Commission held two licensing rounds for such licences, firstly in December 1999 and then again in May 2000. There are no plans to organise any further licensing rounds as spectrum will be required to license digital TV broadcasting services (DTT).
The technical parameters of currently licensed long term broadcast and retransmission services both TV and Radio can be found on our Technical Parameters page.
Microwave Multipoint Distribution Systems (MMDS) at 2.6 and 12GHz
Licences containing rights of use to spectrum at 2.6 and 12 GHz, in respect of the distribution of TV programming using an MMDS, are issued under the Wireless Telegraphy (Multipoint Microwave Distribution System - MMDS) Regulations 2003. These regulations authorise licensees to distribute licensed programme services within geographic areas covered set out in the licences.
Application Procedure
An application procedure is available for interested parties seeking to use an MMDS at 12 GHz. This is not available to parties seeking to use an MMDS at 2.6 GHz as the majority of this band (144 out of 190 MHz of the band) is currently licensed to UPC Ireland Ltd for an MMDS with coverage to most of the State, with the exception of the major urban areas. ComReg issued a call for inputs in May 2010 (Document 10/38) on the potential future uses and licensing options of the 2.6 GHz band.
There are a number of documents relating to the application of an MMDS licence at 12 GHz (i.e. 11.7 – 12.5 GHz). These documents are as follows:
This document provides information for those intending to apply for a licence. This document should be read in conjunction with the Wireless Telegraphy (MMDS) Regulations, 2003, mentioned below.
These Regulations apply to a licence to keep, have possession of, install, maintain, work and use an MMDS for the distribution of licensed programme services or for such other purposes as are specified in the licence. They also outline the fee structure for an MMDS licence.
These conditions detail the characteristics of the equipment that need to be considered for the purposes of frequency spectrum management, safety and the provision of a satisfactory service to the subscriber.
This application form is designed for individuals or organisations that wish to apply for a MMDS Licence to operate a digital television delivery system at 11.7-12.5 GHz. Please ensure you have read the accompanying "Guidance Notes for Applicants" and the Wireless Telegraphy (MMDS) Regulations 2003, before completing this application.
If there is anything you wish to discuss after reading the previous documents please feel free to contact us at broadcastingat@comreg.ie or phone 01 – 8049600 and ask for a member of the broadcasting team.
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