The cable companies operating on the national scene are all expressing joy at the announcement that they will now be able to accept advertising.  The Senate recently approved a bill allowing cable network  to compete for advertising with the established broadcast companies.

The chairman of the Association of Independent Providers, Leighton Thomas, in a recent statement, said that the revenue to be accrued will allow for cheaper advertising rates, more local programming and will assist in providing some 3,000 jobs.  “It is important for the public to understand that we produce television programme and use the cable companies and their networks to distribute our channels.  It is advertising which will provide the funding to enable our work to continue.”  Mr Thomas further stated.

The concerns of the Media Association of Jamaica that their advertising revenue would be reduced was dismissed by Mr. Thomas who said, Cable companies would be happy to gain their market share.   He further said, “We believe that the marketplace will enable the fittest to survive, thus ensuring the longevity of quality programming.  This must rebound to the benefit of all Jamaicans.”