Parliamentary questions

2 September 2013         

Question for written answer - to the Commission

Subject:  Frequency interference problem on the Croatian coast           

Harmful interference of Italian television and radio transmitters, which are operating at frequencies that are not internationally concerted and using technical parameters that are not internationally harmonised, is directly violating international agreements and causing direct damage to Croatia and its citizens.

These interferences are in direct violation of frequency rights that are granted to the Republic of Croatia and cause problems for television and radio reception along the Croatian coast. Istria, Dubrovnik and the Adriatic islands are the areas most affected. The interferences preclude and reduce the reception zone of our transmitters and cause significant economic damage as well as strong dissatisfaction and frustration among our citizens.

Currently, Italian transmitters continue to broadcast on all frequency spectrums for radio and television while not respecting the ‘Geneva 84’ (radio) and ‘Geneva 06’ (television) agreements. The only permanent solution available, therefore, is to apply technical and regulatory provisions set out in international agreements.

How can the Commission help Croatia deal with this problem of harmful interferences of Italian transmitters which cause significant economic damage and strong dissatisfaction and frustration among our citizens?