The Guyana parliament has approved amendments to the Broadcast Bill. The government used its one-seat majority to ensure its passage despite concerns and criticisms from several stakeholders.
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who wrapped up the debate after two days, told Parliamentarians the objective of the amendments is to bring better guidelines to broadcasting.
Government dismisses opposition argument
He said the amendments covers terrorist and racial language ensuring the public is more informed on national issues. The government dismissed arguments from the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) that it had provided broadcast licenses to all those who had applied while the party formed the government.
Nagomootoo named the Stabroek and Kaieteur Newspapers as two media entities which were refused broadcast licenses under the last administration. He said the Guyana Times, which is considered linked to the PPP was given preference and granted a radio license.
Guyana Press Association also opposes
Last week, the Guyana Press Association (GPA) said the amendments “essentially” introduces “an unwarranted program manager” position by the State in the daily schedules of radio and television stations.
The amendments compel private radio and television stations to dedicate 60 minutes of airtime between 6 AM and 10 PM to government for public service content.
The GPA said requesting an “allocation of 60 minutes for public service programs will disrupt and violate contractual obligations stations have with advertisers and program sponsors.”
The 60 minutes is to be allocated for national address by the President, emergency notice or disaster warning issued by the Civil Defense Commission, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Fire Service, Minister of Public Health, and duly authorized government agencies.
