Broadcasting Authority rules on cable dispute

In news in the broadcasting industry, shortly after Channel Seven’s owner, Net Vasquez took over control of the B.T.L. Board as Chairman he cut off Channel Seven news from northern cable operators, including Centaur Cable Station, owned by P.U.P. leader John Briceño and his family. Centaur Cable Network turned to the Belize Broadcasting Authority seeking to reverse Vasquez’ directives. Its Chief Operating Officer, Errol Cattouse, told News Five then that no reason was given for the instruction but he alluded to the fact that Vasquez also owns a cable company in Orange Walk. But in a meeting, of the Belize Broadcasting Authority today, a clear and specific position was taken to enforce the must carry rule. News Five spoke via phone with Chairman of the B.B.A. Board, Louis Leslie.

Louis Leslie, Board Chairman, B.B.A.
“Based on the “must carry” rule, clause five of it, under the terms and conditions of their licenses ALL, and I repeat, all cable operators must carry ALL local channels currently available. Whatever conflicts exist between cable operators is not the concern of the Board. Whatever penalties or whatever decision the Board would take if the terms and conditions of licenses are not complied with, that would have to be at a meeting of the Board.”

Leslie could not say when the Board will meet again but at the pace things are developing since government took control of B.T.L., our best assumption is that the next meeting won’t be far from now.