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| 27/10/06 - Cabinet approves amendments to Broadcasts Bill 2006 |
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Cabinet has approved policy changes to certain provisions of the Broadcast Licensing Bill.
These changes address concerns about certain provisions of the Bill raised in the Report of the Sector Standing Committee on Administrative Services and during its consultative process.
Cabinet based its decision on a submission by the Minister for Information and Communications,
Isireli Leweniqila.
Mr Leweniqila said that whilst there was no serious opposition against the core policy objective advocated by Government through this Bill to set up a licensing framework for the Broadcasting industry, there have, however, been concerns on provisions of the Bill that are perceived to be aimed at excessive control over the industry.
“Selected parts of the Bill have been amended and the Minister’s powers have also been reviewed so as to allay any fears of control over the Licensing Authority and the Complaints Committee.”
Mr Leweniqila said Broadcasting Policy Guidelines have now been included in the Bill.
Further, Mr Leweniqila said that members of the Broadcast Licensing Authority will now include: a person who is neither a public officer nor a representative of the media or broadcast industry, as the independent chairperson; a member to represent the Government; a member who has wide experience in broadcast spectrum management; a member to be nominated by the radio broadcast licensees; a member to be nominated by the television broadcast licensees; and the Executive Secretary of the Consumer Council of Fiji.
“The reconstitution of the Authority together with the method of appointing members will adequately address the concerns raised regarding the need for a fairer system of participation in the decision making processes which form the functions and powers of the Authority.”
These amendments will form part of the amendments to be made in the House of Representatives to the Broadcast Licensing Bill 2006.
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