​Saorview, the Irish free digital terrestrial television service, was launched in May 2011 and is run by RTÉ.

The RTÉ director of transformation and technology explained that Saorview has two terrestrial multiplexes, which broadcast all the channels from RTÉ, TG4 and TV 3, as well as Oireachtas TV (the parliament channel), RTÉ Radio stations and digital Aertel services. It reaches about 98% of the population of Ireland.

Saorview gives access to the best in Irish TV and, with certain products, it also offers free channels from the UK.

There are some 1.6 million TV homes in Ireland and Saorview is currently used by 42% of these. A quarter of Saorview homes also have pay TV, largely provided by Sky, Virgin and Eir.

A new service, Saorview Connect, was launched in November 2017. This new internet-connected product, using home broadband, offers a galaxy of features, including online services, access to content recommendations and a mobile app.

Waghorn explained that Saorview’s ever-growing range of products and services allows viewers to access free television in a way that suits them, whether it’s in their living room or outside the house, watching live TV or catch up.

He ended his engaging presentation, which was given at RTÉ in Dublin, with tips on how to receive the best service from Saorview.