The Government has announced its decision to open the Public Service Broadcasting service to all media organizations, starting from the next financial year. This marks a shift from the previous exclusivity enjoyed by Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC).
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced the decision during Cabinet meetings held on July 11, 12, and 15. He stated that the government had previously engaged FBC exclusively to provide public service broadcasting through radio and television. However, to ensure fairness and create a level playing field in the media industry, the government now plans to involve other service providers. This is intended to enhance the reach of media services, address issues of public interest, and foster fair competition.
The decision has been positively received, as it is expected to promote a level playing field, introduce more local and engaging content, broaden media reach across the country, and elevate media standards in Fiji.
Mai TV director Stanley Simpson praised the government for this initiative. He highlighted that Mai TV, which has been operating for 15 years without government support, will benefit from this development. Simpson emphasized that Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) funds are crucial for producing content that educates and informs Fijians, while also promoting local culture and knowledge.
He added that the fair distribution of PSB funds would strengthen Fiji’s broadcast industry and production capabilities, addressing longstanding concerns in the sector.
FBC’s chief executive officer, Tarun Patel, also welcomed the decision, noting that other media organizations will now participate in the PSB grant and contribute to nation-building events. He affirmed that FBC will continue to deliver PSB as per its government contract.
Attempts to obtain comments from Fiji Television Limited chief executive officer Sunjeewa Perera and Communications Fiji Limited general manager Charles Taylor were unsuccessful.