Broadcasting Commission Wants More Effective Regulatory System

The Broadcasting Commission is seeking to have the Broadcasting and Re-diffusion Act repealed in order to facilitate a more effective regulatory system for the airwaves.
This was revealed by the Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Hopeton Dunn, as he addressed a press conference at the Knutsford Court Hotel, New Kingston, on Tuesday (Feb. 9).
“We have sought an early amendment of the existing Act, to provide the Commission with the authority to impose financial sanctions with a parallel provision for an appeals mechanism,” he said.
He added that widespread consultations had been undertaken with the industry on the matter, and that the Commission hoped that the amendments to the regulatory arrangements would be implemented as soon as possible.
Several legislative changes have been proposed by the Broadcasting Commission, in an attempt to rid the public airwaves of its lewd content.
Dr. Dunn said that recommendations have also been made to the Government to make amendments to the Television and the Sound Broadcasting Regulations.
“The Commission has made a number of recommendations to Government for amendments to the Television and Sound Broadcasting Regulations. These we consider to be urgent, and we will be making the necessary representation for these amendments and reforms to be taken to Parliament at an early date for consideration,” he said.
He explained that the changes recommended included: requirements for creation of play lists and music sheets; vetting and approval of songs by station management prior to transmission by DJ’s; non- transmission of songs that condone, or encourage hostility or violence; the encouragement or glamourising of the use of illegal drugs or misuse of alcohol; and scheduling requirements on local cable channels rated PG and G to be the same as free to air television.