UTV’s Vision Puts Squeeze On TV3

There could be trouble ahead for Ireland’s TV3 television station as Northern Irish media company UTV recently announced plans to open its own station in the Republic of Ireland that will directly compete with Ireland’s first commercial broadcaster.

UTV’s deal with ITV

The move comes on the back of UTV’s deal with UK network, ITV, for exclusive rights to broadcast popular soaps such as Coronation Street and Emmerdale – programs currently shown by TV3. It’s a move that could have disastrous repercussions for cash-strapped TV3, which has been criticized in the past for its lack of original programming. TV3’s chief executive admitted it was a blow,...