Your browser is out-of-date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Update my browser now

×

SIRTI Emphasizes Digital Deployment

Says regulator should apply the law as written

The Syndicat Interprofessionnel Independent Radio and Television (SIRTI) urged the continued deployment of digital terrestrial radio broadcasting in France, according to a statement the organization released.

The group says the government and parliament have given the French media regulator, Conseil supérieur de l’audiovisuel, all the tools and therefore the law requires the organization to continue the deployment of digital terrestrial radio.

The Minister of Culture and Communication Fleur Pellerin stated at a hearing before the Commission of Cultural Affairs of the National Assembly on October 14 that the government would introduce a bill in the first half 2015 that does not include the audiovisual sector. Thus, the current law, which provides for the deployment of digital terrestrial radio in France is not likely to change anytime in the near future. The CSA therefore cannot — in theory — influence the continued deployment.

SIRTI emphasizes that the CSA should enforce the law in place that provides for the country’s continuation of digital radio deployment. But at this point, observers fear it could be delayed until 2016, when the CSA may demonstrate its initiative to complete the project.

Thus far, 99 programs are available on DAB+ in the regions of Paris, Nice and Marseille and there are a number of available frequencies throughout the country. SIRTI points out that these frequencies should not be wasted while waiting for a tardy legislative review.

If the CSA wants to demonstrate its ability to regulate more sectors in the future, it should first enforce the law and propel forward this major project, said SIRTI.

Close