Broadcasting Commission Looking to Acquire Content Monitoring System

The Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica (BCJ) is looking to acquire a content monitoring system, as it seeks to more closely scrutinise the electronic media and rid the airwaves of inappropriate content.

Speaking at a stakeholders meeting  held at the Social Development Commission (SDC) conference room in Spanish Town, St. Catherine  yesterday (April 13), Executive Director of the BCJ, Cordell Green, said that with the “expensive” equipment the agency will be better able to monitor the increasing number of radio and television stations.

He explained that the system, which is computer-based, “will scan the airwaves, scan the television channels, and be able to pick up problematic content and feed it back to us."

In the meantime, Mr. Green said the Commission has established a volunteer media monitoring programme, whereby citizens can get involved in scrutinising radio and television output.

He informed that 230 persons have already been trained across the country in the regulations of the broadcasting media, and encouraged more Jamaicans to join the corps of monitors. “We can do with some more from (St. Catherine),” he said, noting that the
Commission is accepting applications from persons drawn from various age groups, communities and organisations across the country.

Persons interested in the programme can email their names and contact information to info@broadcom.org or call 929-1998, 920-9537-9 or 618-0876.

The St. Catherine stakeholders meeting is part of a series of island-wide sessions organised by the BCJ, to update the public on developments including broadcast content standards, digital television switchover, and upcoming legislative changes for the broadcast industry.