NTRC seeks new powers for convenience of public

“2013 will be remembered for the completion of the full switch to digital transmission in Azerbaijan.

According to the Cabinet of Ministers’ order the analog transmission will be stopped by the end of 2013 and there will be full switch to the digital transmission,” said chairman of the National Television and Radio Council (NTRC) Nushiravan Maharramli said.

He said that they would try to increase the number of local programs in Azerbaijan’s TV channels: “We will do our best so that the vast majority of TV programs are our local programs. We must make efforts so that the national broadcasters of Azerbaijan are engaged in national production and present it to the TV audiences.”

Responding to the question how many serials filmed in Azerbaijan last year, Maharramli said that at least 16 serials were shot: “There were such serials that consisted of 30 or fewer series. At present we are making a report on it. Following this detailed information will be given. If financial aid is provided this year, we can talk about the production of new TV series.”


Answering the question on the fate of appeal sent to the President on empowerment of the Council, Maharramli said: “This issue is halted. Speaking of the power we meant the right of the NTRC to suspend programs annoying community. The appeal still remains unanswered. Many consider that the power given to the Council may play the role of censorship. But it is not so. One of the main objectives of the NTRC is to protect the interests of public. If the community is greatly concerned about any program, the NTRC should be able to take measures on that program. Therefore, we are still backing up our proposal. We want the NTRC to be empowered to suspend programs that do not meet the national and spiritual values within a short period of time. If our decision is inexpedient, TV channels should be empowered to appeal against this decision. In this case, the court will determine whether it is the right decision, or not.”


/APA/