Pacific Press Release – Pacific Media Watch, 23 October 2009

FIJI MEMBERS OF CBA LOSE FULL MEMBERSHIP

SUVA (Pacnews/Pacific Media Watch): Three of Fiji’s leading media organisations have lost their full membership with the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association (CBA).

The decision was made by the CBA in light of Fiji’s suspension from the Commonwealth in the wake of the military backed regime’s postponement of any election until 2014.

The Commonwealth Broadcasting Association with its head office in London is dedicated to assisting member countries with training and funding for development programmes.

Fiji Television Limited, Communications Fiji Limited and Fiji Broadcasting Corporation have been members of the CBA for a number of years.

CBA secretary-general Elizabeth Smith has confirmed to One National News that letters have been issued stating it would not be possible for them to continue as full members.

She says the CBA has offered them “the option of continuing as affiliates”.

“There is no requirement in the CBA constitution that affiliates need to be in Commonwealth countries, whereas there is this requirement for full members.

Smith says:  “As this is a matter of complying with the CBA constitution, I fear this is not a matter for negotiation with our Fiji members. Those who choose to move to affiliate status will still have the advantage of international links through us, and we will still make representations on their behalf, as needed.

“However, they will not have access to the majority of our membership benefits such as in-country training and bursaries. Nevertheless, our awards are open to affiliates, and our travel bursaries, and some of our distance learning courses…”

The secretary-general adds: “We very much hope that at least some of our members in Fiji will take up the option of affiliate membership and that we can stay closely in touch.”

Fiji TV Group CEO Tarun Patel said this was a disadvantage as the CBA was a great resource for high quality training in the broadcast arena.

He also said the change in membership would have minimal effect on their day to day operations as Fiji TV would opt to become an affiliate member.

CFL managing director William Parkinson has also confirmed receiving correspondence from the CBA.

Source: 6504 Pacific Media Watch
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