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DTT roll out in Czech Republic to be re-worked in co-operation with TV NOVA
August 25, 2006,
On August 25, 2006, the Czech Telecommunications Office (CTO) decided to revisit the implementation of the rollout of digital terrestrial television (DTT) in the Czech Republic.
Following discussion and comments from a number of TV broadcasters, the CTO agreed to postpone the approval of their transition plan. They have now agreed to work closely with TV Nova and the other Czech broadcasters to develop an improved plan by the end of 2006. Specifically the CTO and TV Nova are seeking a plan that will be in accordance with the guiding principles set out in the recent amendments to the Czech Media Law, namely equality, transparency and non-discrimination.
CME applauds the CTO's willingness to engage in constructive discussion, and the fact that CME's comments have been listened to by the Czech authorities. Our main worry was the lack of digital terrestrial coverage in the technical plan. This would have potentially left some viewers with no signal.
"TV Nova supports the development of digital terrestrial television and we are technically prepared to supply our viewers with digital broadcasting of the highest quality across a number of exciting new channels. We will cooperate with the CTO to ensure that all our viewers continue to receive their favourite TV station," comments Adrian Sarbu, CME Regional Director.
CME is currently making a legal challenge to the award of six Czech digital terrestrial licenses solely to newcomers in the Czech TV market, since it does not believe the award process was fair and independent.
For additional information, please contact:
Romana Tomasova
Director of Corporate Communications
Central European Media Enterprises
+44 (0)20 7430 5357
romana.tomasova@cme-net.com
