Local cable companies happy for ad legislation
March 20, 2006
LOCAL CABLE television companies have welcomed legislation passed in the Senate to allow them to compete for advertising with established broadcast companies.
In a statement, Leighton Thomas, chairman of the Association of Independent Providers (AIP), said the revenue would allow for cheaper advertising rates, more local programming and provide 3,000 jobs.
"It is important for the public to understand that we produce television programmes and use the cable companies and their networks to distribute our channels. It is advertising which will provide the funding to enable our work to continue," Mr. Thomas said.
LONGEVITY OF QUALITY PROGRAMMING
He dismissed concerns by the Media Association of Jamaica (representing broadcast companies) that their advertising revenue would be reduced. Cable companies, he said, would be happy to gain their market share.
"We believe that the marketplace will enable the fittest to survive, thus ensuring the longevity of quality programming," Mr. Thomas said."This must redound to the benefit of all Jamaicans."...
Author: Gleaner Reporter
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
