Broadcaster's licensing rules have been modified

The broadcasting or retransmission licenses granted to broadcasters before the adoption of the Audiovisual Code in 2006 shall be renewed automatically, provided that their holders didn't break the provisions of the Code; this is one of the amendments to the broadcaster's licensing regulation passed by Parliament on Friday, Info-Prim Neo reports. Corina Fusu, the head of the parliamentary commission responsible for mass media, explained that the modifications were needed because the old rules required every broadcaster to participate in a contest to renew its license, despite the Code affording automatic extension to those broadcasters which haven't committed any infringements during 7 years. MP Victor Stepaniuc, member of the same commission, called on the deputies to refrain from passing the amendments, maintaining they would lead to the monopolization of the market by certain broadcasters. “Why should we fear contests, even if some broadcasters haven't committed any infringements? Without contests, we would allow for monopolies to emerge in the broadcasting sector”, said Victor Stepaniuc. “The Code is superior to any regulation. Those which broke the Code will participate in contests. But I see no reason why those that have respected pluralism of opinion should participate”, replied Corina Fusu. The Audiovisual Code was adopted in the summer of 2006 replacing the Audiovisual Law of 1995.