Government is failing Wales over digital switchover - Eleanor Burnham (Eleanor Burnham )

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Eleanor Burnham <info@eburnham.org.uk>

Government is failing Wales over digital switchover - Eleanor Burnham

October 5, 2005 4:35 PM

Eleanor Burnham AM, Welsh Liberal Democrat spokesperson on broadcasting, today attacked the Assembly Government over its ambivalence towards digital TV. In a short debate this afternoon Mrs Burnham will demonstrate the problems digital presents and lambaste Culture Minister Alun Pugh for his lack of action.

Earlier today Mrs Burnham said, "85'000 people along the borders and in the North of Wales cannot watch what happens in this Assembly, in their name, paid for with their money. They cannot watch Welsh language television. The technology exists to address the problem but the political will is lacking.

"The Welsh Assembly Government must commit to ensuring that the people of Wales have universal access to Welsh digital TV, both public & commercial. One that allows everyone, the freedom to access both Welsh and English language programmes.

"Thirty years after the Crawford Report there is no excuse. Digital switchover provides one last chance to give people what they pay for.

"Also switchover presents significant problems for vulnerable groups, such as the poor, elderly and disabled.

"But digital technology is not always affordable, usable or accessible for these groups. Yet these are precisely the people who stand to gain the most from digital broadcasting. It has the potential to break down the traditional barriers that can lead to exclusion. It will enable people to see and participate in the world around them from their own homes.

"The Westminster Government has a narrow definition of vulnerability and its risks leaving people behind because they do not fit the boxes neatly.

"The Assembly and the Government drawn from it is supposed to be the champion of Wales, to fight the Welsh fight. It is not good enough to shrug you shoulders and say it is not a devolved responsibility as our Minister has consistently done.

"Broadcasting might not be devolved, but that does not absolve us of responsibility, or more importantly, of our ability to do something about it."

Diwedd/Ends.