Ministry of Transport, Information Technology and Communications

“A campaign to promote the benefits of the Digital Terrestrial TV is forthcoming “said the deputy minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications Kamen Kichev during the opening of the national conference “Telecom market – peer platform for operators and business clients”

State institutions and public organizations will provide information on their websites on the commitments of Bulgaria as part of the European Union to provide the stop of the analog broadcasting as of 2012, and the equipment necessary for the reception of the digital signal. We will offer to the large consumers electronic stores to have a special place where to demonstrate the TV sets with receivers and devices for digital signal, explained Kichev. Currently about 25 % of the Bulgarians watch free TV. It is expected that these people then will orientate towards the digital terrestrial TV. Some of them will have to buy devices for the receiving of better quality signal. Retail price at the moment is around 25 euros. Unlike the consumers of cable and satellite TV, however, for digital broadcasting programs, there will be no fees. 

The Ministry of Transport, Information Technology and Communications will propose policy in the electronic communications, which will set the guidelines for development of the sector. Electronic communications act will be changed according to the new regulatory framework of the European Union. Would be reflected the principle of neutrality of technologies and services to the management of the Radio technology spectrum. So the range is currently only designed for GSM, can be used for other technologies which allow the transmission of larger volume of data. The changes in The Electronic Communications Act will regulate the increased security requirements of the networks and services; and to protect consumer rights; especially to those with disabilities. A discussion is just round the corner whether Internet should be added to the universal service.

 The Ministry of Transport, Information Technology and Communications works closely with business in the interest of consumers, said in conclusion deputy minister Kichev. Quick Internet Initiative in small villages in remote or agricultural areas will develop telecommunications structure where it has not had an investment interest. On the one hand, the residents of those areas will have access to information and communication technologies and on the other hand business can reach end users in partnership with the government.

For additional information:
Milan Martinov, Press Centre,
Ministry of Transport, Information Technology
and Communications
Phone: + 359 2 940 96 25
E-Mail: mmartinov@mtitc.government.bg