A new television channel has been awarded a 10-year licence, in principle, by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI). Subject to confirmation, it is expected that Channel 6, as it will be known, will be on our screens within six months.
According to the BCI, the new channel, operated by Muglins Broadcasting Ltd, will provide "a broad format entertainment service providing movies, music, drama and comedy". It will also include local programming "on topical matters exploring all aspects of modern Irish culture".
It will be aimed primarily at the 15-35 age bracket and will be carried by Sky, NTL and Chorus as part of their standard analogue and digital packages. It is thought that the service will broadcast initially for 12 hours per day Monday to Friday and 15 hours Saturday and Sunday.
The licence has been awarded to Channel 6 under the Broadcasting Act 2001.
BCI chairman Conor J Maguire said he was delighted to award the licence. "I am confident that the proposed service will provide its viewers with a quality Irish entertainment service which will add to the diversity of services currently available. We look forward to commencing contract negotiations with the station."
The fifth channel licensed in the State, City Channel, is due to hit the airwaves on September 6th, providing niche programming for a Dublin-based viewership. It is thought that Channel 6 will be more mainstream, being available throughout the country.
Meanwhile, the BCI said yesterday it had agreed in principle to further licensing of commercial radio stations, particularly those providing regional youth-driven, speech-driven or religious services. More details of a three-year licensing plan will be released after the BCI's next meeting in September.