Churches offer alternative for dying regional TV

Churches offer alternative for dying regional TV

The Churches’ Broadcasting Commission says there is a future for regional TV, despite stations in Wellington and Christchurch announcing their closure recently.

“We’ve asked the Minister of Broadcasting to ring-fence satellite frequencies for not-for-profit groups, as part of the digital television policies that are being considered,” said Commission chairperson, Trish Moseley.

“This will give an opportunity for transmission of community and special interest TV stations at a fraction of the present costs,” said Mrs Moseley.

She said that digital satellite transmission is undoubtedly where the future of TV lies.

“We believe it is vital that a portion of this transmission space is reserved for regional and community interests. “Only the government can do this, and they must do it now as there may never be another opportunity once all frequencies are allocated. We believe it is their obligation and responsibility and we’ll be lobbying them to this end.

“We hope other interested parties will join us in persuading the government of both the need and the common-sense in keeping some digital channels available for TV that will genuinely reflect the ‘heart and soul’ of New Zealand such as regional stations have tried to do, and not all be gobbled up by national and international media interests,” added Mrs Moseley.

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