RTE signs major digital deal with BSkyB

RTE programmes will be broadcast on Sky Digital from April as part of a new deal between the national broadcaster and BSkyB, it emerged today.

Neither RTE or BSkyB would say how much RTEpaid for the deal. British station ITV are known to have paid Sky Digital £17 million sterling for the equivalent deal.

In a statement today, RTE said: "The contract to join the Sky Digital platform is the latest step in ensuring universal availability for RTE viewers and listeners in the digital age".

Director-General of RTE Mr Bob Collins said: "Our presence on the Sky Digital platform will make RTE channels available to new audiences - and strengthen the choice of access for many of our existing viewers and listeners".

He said: "It is of particular importance to us that as a result of this agreement, which is funded through our commercial resources, we have significantly increased the distribution of our TV channels in Northern Ireland".

RTE’s existing channels - RTE1, Network 2, TG4 and four radio channels - will still be available on the existing terrestrial services including cable.

The four radio channels will also be available to listeners in Britain, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands.

BSkyB chief operating officer Mr Richard Freudenstein said: "I am delighted to welcome the RTE channels to Sky Digital and to the top positions on our electronic Programme Guide in Ireland."