In 2012, ICP-ANACOM continued its work to monitor compliance by PTC with its obligations as set out in the right of use of frequencies on a national basis for the digital terrestrial television broadcasting service, associated with Multiplexer A. The aspects monitored included the following:
- Coverage obligations with reference to the end of 2011: this monitoring was carried out by analysing the specific elements of coverage submitted by PTC to ICP-ANACOM and subsequent testing. The results showed that, at the end of 2011, PTC fulfilled the limits associated with coverage of the terrestrial broadcasting network established in the right of use of frequencies for fixed reception in the mainland (covering 90.12% of the population), in the Autonomous Region of Azores (covering 87.36% of the population) and the Autonomous Region of Madeira (covering 85.97% of the population).
- Obligations of the use of the right of use of frequencies, in the frequencies established, for the transmission of unrestricted free-to-air television programme services, as well as the obligation to reserve capacity and transport on Mux A.
- The information given by PTC on 31 January 2012 for the purpose of monitoring the obligation of implementing measures with an impact on the level of economic activity in the country, in the context of developing the national equipment, applications and content industry.
- The obligation to implement a DTT promotion and information plan, at a regional and national level, supported over multiple media.
- The availability of all consumer support measures set out in the proposal: creating a website with all the information about the service and a contact centre with customer service provided over the telephone 24 hours per day, seven days per week; conduct online verification of the conditions of the service's coverage anywhere in the country; and ensure levels of service in relation to DTT users.
- Obligation to make available to those receiving the signal through complementary means - DTH - at least the same services as in areas covered by terrestrial means, as well as service levels and conditions of access for end-users which are equivalent to those provided in areas covered by terrestrial means.
- Obligation to subsidise the acquisition of DTT and DTH set-top-boxes by citizens with special needs, by disadvantaged population groups and by institutions of proven social value.
- Obligation to provide reimbursements for installations and equipment in areas covered by means of complementary coverage. The oversight was performed based on information requested from PTC.
- PTC's obligation to conduct and disseminate, at least until the cessation of terrestrial analogue television broadcasts and especially to ICP-ANACOM, studies and surveys providing information on the transition to DTT.
- Verification of the obligations arising from determination of 18 May 2012 concerning the need to optimise and stabilise the network, the existence of a communication plan to give information about the entry into service of three additional transmitters, Monte da Virgem, Lousã and Montejunto and establishment of procedures to reimburse users in respect of costs incurred as a result of the entry into service of these new transmitters.
ICP-ANACOM confirmed compliance with the various obligations through the examination of information provided by PTC and through enforcement actions.
