Monaco’s much-vaunted TV channel, Monte-Carlo Riviera TV, will not see the light of day until the second half of next year, 12 months after the original launch date.

The new French-language channel is being financed during the current year to the tune of 100,000 euros by the Monaco Government to help get it started and there will be a close working relationship with TV5 Monde. The state will own 100 percent of the new channel.

The role of the channel will be to help promote a positive image of Monaco in the world, as well as providing local content. The project is reportedly close to the heart of HSH Prince Albert.

The General Manager of Monte-Carlo Riviera TV is Salim Zeghdar, who is also CEO of Top Marques, the well-known supercar salon. At one time he was executive director of Monacair, the helicopter operator majority-owned by the Casiraghi family.

Once it’s up and running the new channel will be eligible to join the European Broadcasting Union, which would enable Monaco to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest.