Broadcasting & Radio Re-Diffusion Act to be Amended

Cabinet has approved drafting instructions to amend the Broadcasting and Radio Re-Diffusion Act (1995) to provide for more flexibility in the granting of a subscriber television or cable television licence.

Minister of Information, Senator Burchell Whiteman said that the amendments were necessary as the licensing period for cable operators expired at the end of the year, and it was imperative to review the renewal of licences in the context of developments in the sector, technology and the viability of the industry.

Senator Whiteman made the announcement yesterday (March 8) while addressing the weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.

The Minister mentioned that it was being contemplated to grant licences for a period exceeding the six years, which the law currently provides for licences.

He said the proposed amendments to the legislation would allow for “more flexibility available to the Minister on the advice of the Broadcasting Commission in respect of granting licences as we take into account the changing environment and the long-term future of the industry”.