BBC ALBA set to ‘move up’ Sky TV’s remote control

THE Gaelic language TV channel, BBC ALBA, is set to move up Sky’s ‘remote control’ (electronic programme guide’ (EPG)) listing to No. 143, creating what is being described as a ‘more prominent position’ than its current home at 168.

Says a media release announcing the move: “The channel has been available on Sky and Freesat since it first launched almost five years ago, enabling satellite viewers to enjoy the channel’s unique range of high quality programme content.

“In 2011, BBC ALBA was launched on Freeview channel 8 and Virgin Media 188 which increased accessibility for viewers throughout Scotland.

“BBC ALBA now continues to attract on average 500,000 viewers a week, with 3.4 million having tuned in online via BBC iPlayer throughout 2012.”

Its new home on Sky means it will now sit alongside BBC One HD and BBC Two HD.

The release quotes Margaret Mary Murray, head of service at BBC ALBA, as saying: “We have been extremely proud of the channel’s achievements since it was first aired almost five years ago, and enhancing its EPG positioning has been an important element of creating better awareness and accessibility for all across the country.”