Today marks the end of digital DAB radio transmissions in Ireland as RTÉ deactivates its services on the platform.
The broadcaster originally announced in 2019 that it would also shut down stations using DAB as its main outlet, but turned back earlier this month.
RTÉ Gold, RTÉ 2XM, RTÉ Radio 1 Extra, RTÉ Pulse and RTÉjr Radio now continue online only, offering hope that they may one day return to DAB.
It would therefore appear that the DAB service has indeed been closed. Thank you to everyone who has listened to us on DAB over the years we really hope you can continue to listen to us online on any computer or smart device (phone, tablet, speaker or internet radio) or on your TV 💛 https://t.co/7a2rHyn21K
– RTE Gold (@RTEGold) March 31, 2021
DAB in Ireland is silent. pic.twitter.com/tsYFJDRpgq
– BRIAN GREENE (@BrianGreene) March 31, 2021
RTÉ claims that its decision to stop DAB transmission was motivated by three main factors: the fact that DAB was the least used platform in Ireland; that RTÉ is the only Irish broadcaster on the DAB system, and cost avoidance.
A report commissioned by the broadcaster found that only 0.5% of adults in Ireland listen to radio via DAB while 77% of adults in Ireland listen to FM.
Commercial and pirate services using the platform, as well as some trials, have also come to an end in recent years without a word from the government regarding any plans to switch to digital broadcasting in Ireland.
I think we have our answer @BrianGreene. The audio ended at 11am on the button. The EPG is still active until approximately 11:04 am, when the message has changed to “This service is closedâ€. Appeared. pic.twitter.com/yA6HJnRTo9
– Ralph McGarry (@RalphMcGarry) March 31, 2021
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