The Broadcasting Commission takes note of a letter captioned 'A bleeping shame' published on December 17.

The commission agrees with the writer that media managers and owners must take responsibility for and demonstrate much better control over the output of their stations.

The matter of deteriorating broadcast standards takes up a lot of the commission's time, far more than meets the eye or perceived by some members of the public. Just this month, December 11, to be exact, a very popular female DJ was fired from her prime time slot on a popular radio station because she played a song which was not fit for airplay and in the process transmitted an expletive.

Egregious breach

The radio station took the extreme action because in its own words "it was the view of the company that changes which were implemented after a recent meeting with the commission were sufficient to prevent the egregious breach which took place on December 4. However, we were wrong and as a result have fine-tuned our policies." The station's new policies require all presenters to only play music from its library.

Second, the station's morning show is now to be presented by two persons, in order to allow each presenter sufficient time to "research the music, write the music sheet and ensure it is vetted by the programme manager".

This most recent case illustrates the daily work of the Broadcasting Commission and the impact it is having behind the scenes. However, the writer's letter and our own assessment at a recent strategic retreat make it clear that the work of the Broadcasting Commission is not sufficiently understood and must be more widely publicised. This is a matter which will receive significant attention and resources in 2009.

We also agree with the writer that "stiffer penalties need to be applied". The Commission has been urging government to amend the broadcasting law to give it the authority to impose financial sanctions. It will also increase recommendations for the suspension of broadcasting licences if stations continue to allow grossly inappropriate content to pollute the airwaves. However, the Commission needs the support of the public whenever it takes strong action.

The Broadcasting Commission also encourages listeners and viewers to bring to its attention any complaint about inappropriate content. One of the primary functions of the Commission, under the law, is to receive and investigate complaints from the public.

I am, etc.,

CORDEL GREEN

Executive Director