The announcement of a review based on the outdated Broadcasting Act (1999) raises questions. Most of this act is no longer in effect, and the remaining parts focus on the SABC. Wouldn’t the Electronic Communications Act (2005) be a more relevant basis?
The timing also seems odd. Broadcasting is already being reviewed as part of the larger ICT Policy Review Process. The government published a discussion document on November 14, 2014, with a dedicated chapter on broadcasting. This seems like another consequence of splitting the communications portfolio into separate ministries.
Public Input Wanted:
The review is open for public and industry input. Here are some potential areas to consider:
Funding and purpose of public broadcasters
How broadcasting services are regulated
Local and national content requirements
Language development through broadcasting
Future of broadcasting beyond digital TV
Institutions supporting the industry’s growth
“Must-carry” regulations (requiring broadcasters to carry certain channels)
Promoting media development and diversity
Interested persons are invited to provide written proposals by 12 December 2014, addressed to:
DoC Broadcasting Policy Review
[1 December 2014]
The submission deadline is now January 16th, 2015.
Notice on DoC website
[13 November 2014]
The Department of Communications is inviting submissions for a fresh look at current broadcasting regulations.
Call for Written Proposals on Broadcasting Policy Review November 2014
Minister’s Statement on the Broadcasting Policy Review
The announcement of a review based on the outdated Broadcasting Act (1999) raises questions. Most of this act is no longer in effect, and the remaining parts focus on the SABC. Wouldn’t the Electronic Communications Act (2005) be a more relevant basis?
The timing also seems odd. Broadcasting is already being reviewed as part of the larger ICT Policy Review Process. The government published a discussion document on November 14, 2014, with a dedicated chapter on broadcasting. This seems like another consequence of splitting the communications portfolio into separate ministries.
Public Input Wanted:
The review is open for public and industry input. Here are some potential areas to consider:
Interested persons are invited to provide written proposals by 12 December 2014, addressed to:
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