Information Minister Fayval Williams - file photo
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Fayval Williams
Jamaica is to embark on a digital switchover, starting January 2022.
Digital switchover is the name given to the process in which analogue television broadcasting is converted to digital television.
The transition is expected to result in improved quality of broadcasts, and the freeing up of spectrum space for other services such as mobile and broadband services.
Information Minister Fayval Williams, who provided the House of Representatives with an update Tuesday afternoon, said the digital switchover will be implemented in stages, with the initial focus on main urban centres.
"Broadcasters will be allowed at least one year of simultaneous digital and analogue broadcast to give them time to change their equipment and test the new system," she said.
The process is expected to be completed by 2023.
Minister Williams said a committee will be established to oversee the management and timely delivery of the digital switchover as well as lead communication and recommendations for legislative and regulatory changes necessary.
The committee is to be chaired by the Information Minister, with deputy chairman being State Minister Robert Morgan.
Other members will include representatives from Ministry of Education; the Office of the Prime Minister; Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology; the Broadcasting Commission; Spectrum Management Authority; media entities, including Television Jamaica; the Jamaica Association of Community Cable Operators; National Consumers League; Combined Disabilities Association; and Anti-Dumping and Subsidies Commission.
There will also be a technical and regulatory committee to oversee frequency planning and coordination, and address legislative and regulatory issues, in addition to other things.
The Information Minister said the initiative would cost the industry approximately US$18 million to US$20 million, while households will be able to get a "set up box" with the the digital signal for about $4,000 to $5,000.
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