Time for local content law for radio stations

THE EDITOR: As we approach the national budget, I would like to propose an initiative that has the potential to generate new revenue, create opportunities for our youth, and reduce foreign exchange outflows. That initiative is: the passage of legislation mandating minimum levels of local content on our radio stations.

For years we've discussed this idea, and with advancements in recording technology it's now both practical and essential. Our local artists across all music genres struggle for recognition.

A mandatory 25 per cent local content quota for all radio stations is not only achievable but would also be a catalyst for our creative industry, driving economic growth and reducing the outflow of currency. (People seem to overlook the fact that radio stations pay royalties on foreign-created musical content.)

Local content quotas are vital for preserving and promoting our cultural heritage, allowing local voices to share their stories with a broader audience. This policy supports cultural preservation, economic development and social cohesion.

As seen with the recent Call to Order initiative by the Ministry of National Security, local content can also serve as a tool for crime reduction by fostering community connection and addressing local issues.

Furthermore, the idea of local content minimums can also be readily extended to our local television broadcasters as well, and can redound to many of the same benefits listed above.

In summary, mandating local content on radio stations supports cultural preservation, economic growth, and social cohesion. It ensures that local voices are heard and contributes to a more diverse and representative media landscape.

These benefits underscore the importance of enacting and enforcing local content requirements on our radio stations. And it's high time to turn this long-discussed idea into reality.

G ELIAS

Cascade