Ireland’s First High-Powered DAB+ Broadcasting Platform Set to Launch This Spring, heralding a New Era for Irish Radio.
Foothold Communications, a leader in radio and telecommunications engineering, has announced the launch of Ireland’s first high-powered DAB+ broadcast platform. The groundbreaking service, FáilteDAB, will begin broadcasting primarily from the eastern region to begin in late Spring 2025 under a ComReg DAB+ trial license.
This cutting-edge service is set to redefine Irish radio broadcasting, offering crystal clear digital audio and an unparalleled listening experience.
Under the ComReg trial license, FáilteDAB aims to bring greater choice, superior audio quality, and a dynamic new platform for broadcasters and listeners alike.
The team behind FáilteDAB is now inviting broadcasters from across Ireland to express their interest in joining this revolutionary shift toward digital radio.
Stephen Foley, Managing Director of Foothold Communications, described the announcement as a historic moment for Irish radio: “Today marks a major milestone in Irish broadcasting as we work alongside ComReg to develop DAB+ services. With 80% of radio listening happening in vehicles, and all cars sold in Ireland since 2021 equipped with DAB+ as standard, the time is right to expand and enhance this technology to reach a wider audience.”
Foley also expressed gratitude to Ireland’s media and communications regulators, Coimisiún na Meán and ComReg for supporting the initiative: “We appreciate the opportunity to roll out this critical DAB+ service, which aligns with Ireland’s Broadcasting Services Strategy. This trial will showcase the immense potential of digital audio broadcasting for both listeners and broadcasters.”
To ensure exceptional broadcast quality, Foothold Communications has partnered with industry leaders such as GatesAIR and Paneda, utilising cutting edge multiplexing technology to power the FáilteDAB network.
Owned and operated by Foothold Communications, FáilteDAB is set to deliver an expansive range of services, providing Irish audiences with superior digital radio like never before. This is just the beginning, a new era for Irish radio starts now.
