1. Purpose

This discussion document outlines the issues relating to achieving a fully digital television broadcasting environment and the allocation of the digital dividend spectrum resulting from the upcoming Digital Switch-Over (DSO) process.

The document seeks the opinions of interested parties on the analysis and options presented.

Further consultation on specific proposals may be initiated after reviewing submissions to this document.

The first four sections of this document cover process issues, background information and overall objectives. The next two sections contain the substantive issues:

• Section 5 covers matters relating to spectrum planning for digital television and allocation of the “digital dividend” which are the responsibility of the Ministry of Economic Development;
• Section 6 covers matters relating to regional television services which are the responsibility of the Ministry for Culture and Heritage;
  

Submitters may respond to either or both of these sections as they wish.