Public Youth Radio in next week’s budget?

“The government should show its commitment to a public youth radio network by allocating funding for its establishment in next week’s budget,” said Brenda Pilott, National Secretary of the PSA in a letter sent from the union to Broadcasting Minister, Steve Maharey today.

Last week the government announced the allocation of a radio frequency for Kiwi FM to multinational company CanWest despite Radio New Zealand preparing a well researched proposal to establish a youth radio network.

“A public youth radio network has a crucial role to play in defining and celebrating New Zealand’s national identify which is a key element of next week’s budget.”

“A public youth radio network has been on the cards for sometime now. Government should show its commitment to New Zealand young people by funding the establishment of a public youth radio network in the budget.”

The PSA represents those working in public broadcasting including in TVNZ and Radio New Zealand and over 52,000 public service workers in central and local government, the health sector and in community services.

“We are worried that government seems more focussed on multi-national media companies when they should be supporting public radio,” said Brenda Pilott. “We will be seeking an assurance from government that it shares our commitment to the future of public broadcasting in New Zealand.”

The PSA have requested an urgent meeting with Broadcasting Minister, Steve Maharey to discuss the future of public broadcasting in New Zealand.

“We will be seeking answers from the Minister about the future of public broadcasting in New Zealand including ensuring that youth radio will be a publicly funded, public service,” said Brenda Pilott.

ENDS

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