“THE BILL FINALLY EMBETTLES A1+”
Support A1+!Today two bills regulating the sphere of Television and Radio were put on the NA agenda. The government proposes to make amendments to the RA law on “Television and Radio” and RA law on “Television and Radio Commission regulations.”
By the way, it was suggested to endorse the bills after two hearings. But the deputies voted against the suggestion. To note, the RA NA deputies got acquainted with the draft amendments only this morning.
Stepan Zakaryan, deputy of “Justice” faction, maintains that the amendments provide monopoly of the sphere. “It turns out that only licensed TV Companies can have production. This means that all the existing TV Companies must always stay in Armenia as in case there is a new tender of broadcasting the applicant must show his product in order to be able to organize broadcasting. This means that the National Commission on Television and Radio is needless; it has nothing more to discuss but the financial plan. This is a complete nonsense. Moreover, it finally embattles A1+ as the latter will be deprived of its production and satellite connection. And where will the representatives of Opposition order their pre-election reels – in National TV Company?” The deputy claims they must do their best to turn down the amendments.
Deputy Viktor Dallakyan says that the bill is a slap in the parliament’s face - if it is endorsed the program “Parliamentary Hour,” the announcements made by the deputies as well as the debates of the government members will be off air.
Hranoush Hakobyan, chairman of the Standing Committee on scientific, educational and cultural affairs didn’t want to comment on the draft amendments saying that she will present her opinion during the discussions.
