Electronic Media Broadcasting Authority Act to be passed soon – Mass Media State Minister Shantha Bandara
State Minister of Mass Media Shantha Bandara, at a news conference yesterday (13) at the Presidential Media Centre, under the theme ‘Collective way to a stable country’, announced that the Electronic Media Broadcasting Authority (EMBA) Act is to be introduced to Parliament and enacted soon.
He elaborated that, “Significant amendments have been made to the EMBA Act following majority agreement. The finalised Bill has been submitted to the Attorney General’s (AG) Department and to be presented to Parliament for adoption in the near future.
Furthermore, a National Media Policy is set to be presented, currently awaiting approval from the Cabinet. It’s worth noting that there will be no hindrances for the Media in this regard. In tackling today’s challenge of financial management, we directed our attention towards addressing revenue and expenditure issues. Specifically, we concentrated on the 16 institutions falling under the Ministry, a significant portion of which relied on Treasury allocations. As a result, initiatives were undertaken to enhance the self-sufficiency of these entities, enabling them to operate independently.
Particularly, in our efforts to enhance Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation and the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, we engaged in discussions with their management, leading to crucial decisions that have garnered positive responses.
Furthermore, Independent Television Network and the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd (Lake House) have undergone significant transformations. We anticipate turning these institutions into profitable entities by next year.
Moreover, the Postal Department’s (PD) revenue projection saw a notable increase from Rs 9,268 million in 2022 to Rs. 13,616 million in 2023. Through improved services and enhanced management practices, without imposing additional burdens on the public, we managed to reduce the PD’s losses from Rs. 7,173 million in 2021 to Rs. 6,832 million in 2022, and further down to Rs. 3,222 million in 2023. We are confident that by end 2024, the PD will operate as a self-sustaining, profit-making institution independent of Treasury inputs.
Additionally, the Cabinet has approved a special programme worth Rs. 10 billion, to establish a joint venture between the Private and Public sectors. This initiative aims to expedite international goods exchange processes. Furthermore, plans are underway to launch a courier service for the exchange of goods in the Western Province this year, utilising 200 three-wheelers and 50 motorcycles.
Additionally, plans are underway to expand the scope of services provided by Bank of Ceylon branches to cover 100 Post Offices.
Preparations for the establishment of the Chartered Institute of Journalists (CIJ) have been completed, with initial work forwarded to the AG’s Department. The CIJ aims to offer internationally recognized certification to journalists who undergo proper training.
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