A NEW CAMPAIGN has been launched to inform TV viewers on making the switchover from the analogue to digital services later this year.

In October, the traditional analogue signal that has beamed TV channels into our living rooms since the foundation of RTÉ 50 years ago will be switched off. In its place, a new digital signal will broadcast RTÉ, TV3, TG4 and their spin-off channels.

But a collection of community groups is worried that some people could be left behind by the switch, which requires either a set-top box or a relatively new television with digital capability.

The Wheel and Irish Rural Link are aiming to target those who may not be aware of the switch – which the groups said included older people, those living in rural areas, people with less formal education and anyone who is isolated.

The campaign will be “reaching out to the people who otherwise would not make the switch to a digital television service,” The Wheel chief executive Deirdre Garvey said, adding that it would “ensure that nobody is left behind”.

It’s hoped local community groups will get involved in the campaign and help to reach those people in their areas who may not be aware of the switchover.

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