Jamaica slaps ban on illegal TV broadcasts
The Jamaican government has ordered that all television cable operators stop illegal pickups of US pay-per-view channels and other satellite broadcasts. The edict has particular relevance to Guyana as broadcast and copyright laws are under consideration here. Many local operators at a broadcast seminar last week asked for a grace period of up to 15 years before cutting out satellite programming. An Associated Press report quotes an official of the Jamaican Government Broadcasting Commission as saying: "We are not waiting for somebody to contact us before we take the action. We know what the law requires in terms of intellectual property compliance... this is a global issue." There are 37 television cable channels in Jamaica. Those which ignore the order that takes effect on Wednesday, face a fine of US$1,500 or three months in prison and could have their licences suspended.  Follow the goings-on in Guyana
|