CBB expectant that Radio NZ will be included in 2014 Budget Spend

“The Minister of Finance has indicated that spending is to increase by almost $1b and we hope that just 1% is earmarked for Radio NZ” says CBB Chief Executive, Myles Thomas. “Radio NZ deserves to be recognised for its incredible services through a 6 year budget freeze.”

Radio NZ National is still the most popular radio network in New Zealand, despite a budget freeze since 2008. An independent KPMG report in 2007 showed that RNZ was already under-funded by at least $6m. The freeze has effectively cut Radio NZ funding by 9%.

“Radio NZ has shown extraordinary resilience throughout the freeze - making efficiencies, selling assets and improving its radio and online service. As we would expect, Radio NZ has remained steadfastly loyal to its shareholding Minister throughout these difficulties. Despite the budget freeze and non-appearance of Ministers on its programmes, the broadcaster has quietly got on with the job, delivering award-winning content to New Zealanders and remaining NZ’s number one radio broadcaster.

“Since we publicised Radio NZ’s financial situation a month ago, Radio NZ itself has come out and admitted the funding freeze is a serious problem. At last week’s Commerce Committee meeting RNZ bosses warned they have run out of options and if the freeze continues, on-air services will be affected.

“This is a pretty clear indication to government that the freeze must end. The CBB and the half million regular RNZ listeners hope the government finally eases its disdain for public service broadcasting and increases funding as per the 2007 KPMG report, inflation adjusted. That means an increase of just $10.2m or 1% of overall budget spending increases.”

One month and 900 members.

Since launching publicly on April 14th the Coalition for Better Broadcasting Trust has received more than 900 Members. We’d like to say a big thank you for the generous support as we begin the task of bringing better broadcasting to New Zealand.

“This shows there is overwhelming support for public service broadcasting and online media in this country, and it’s just the beginning. In coming months and years the CBB aims to become a powerful group to champion public service broadcasting and media in NZ and represent its audiences.

Background

The Coalition for Better Broadcasting is a non-profit charitable trust formed by organisers of Save Radio NZ and Save TVNZ 7.

More information re Radio NZ including funding comparisons –www.betterbroadcasting.co.nz/defrost-rnz-funding-freeze

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