Milford Williams, Gleaner writer
CUFFE
RADIO MONA FM 93 will have to make big changes once the University of the West Indies carries out plans to cease subsidising its operations.
Since its start as a commercial entity, the station has been receiving close to $2 million per month in subsidies. The Financial Gleaner was reliably informed that the subventions have reached roughly $65 million over the last three years and the university can no longer afford to continue this support.
The subventions were granted in the hope that the station would eventually become self-sufficient, but it has not been able to break even.
"We are not in a position to disclose any information on the matter now," said station manager, Michael Anthony Cuffe. "We are currently engaged in talks with other parties on the way forward for the station, and as soon as things are sorted out we will arrange a press briefing."
The Financial Gleaner attempted to contact popular talk show host Anthony Abrahams concerning reports that he is negotiating the purchase of a minority interest in Radio Mona. He could not be contacted directly, but a spokesperson at his office quoted Mr. Abrahams as saying he did not wish to comment on the matter at this time.
Radio Mona began as a non-commercial entity catering to the UWI Campus and its immediate environs. It was used as a training ground for CARIMAC students who presented programmes within limited airtime.
A proposal was then made to hand over the operations to the university's central administration. Soon after, the Broadcasting Commission revised its regulations making it mandatory for all radio stations to operate with a commercial license.
In May 2002 the station started operating on a 24-hour format with an islandwide reach in order to gain a wider audience. The new programme schedule became difficult for students to maintain while managing their class schedules so the decision was made to employ full time personnel.
