DPI,
In only a matter of weeks, Lindeners will finally be able to tune into their television station.
The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) has prepared and signed the licence and in a matter of days, will be handing over the same to the relevant officials. This was related to the residents, by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, at the flag raising ceremony, on Friday evening.
Minister Harmon said that one of the requirements is the establishment of a management committee and he will be mediating this process within the week to ensure the timely handing over of the licence. He also related that the National Communications Network (NCN Inc.), has already identified the equipment to be used for the television station and everything will be in place.
“This is historical for you, Linden. Things are happening here in Linden and once we have worked out those issues, you can be assured that you will receive the licence within one week,” he told the large gathering.
Responding to the good news, Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira, who was part of the initial Board of Directors for the Linden Television Station, said the issuance of the licence has always been a top priority for the administration. He noted that while it was not in the public’s purview, steps were taken to ensure that legally the station, when handed over, will belong to the residents of Linden and that they are the primary beneficiaries.
“This television station belongs to the residents and residents must have legal ownership of it, and not a few chosen names. I am happy that the process of issuance has finally come to fruition. This is another example of how important the needs of the residents of Linden are to the David Granger administration. We, the regional officials will ensure that the purpose of this station will be fulfilled, and residents will be the main beneficiaries,” MP Figueira said.
Presently, Lindeners are benefiting from limited channels received by the National Communications Network (NCN) which provides a weekly news broadcast. With the passing of the late Sandra Adams, the board now has 14 members. These include Phillip Bynoe, Former Mayor Carwyn Holland and present Mayor Waneka Arrindell, Regional MP’s Jermaine Figueira and Audwin Rutherford, Leslie Gonsalves and Merna Adrian, former Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon and Vanessa Kissoon. Channel 13 is expected to be handed over to LTV.
The application for a television station was made in 2012. The then government had signed an agreement to grant the license on August 21 2012; however, this was never done.
Story and image: Vanessa Braithwaite.
JOE Harmon: Minister of State, Joseph Harmon addresses Lindeners at the Flag Raising Ceremony of the 49th Republic anniversary on Friday
