Starcom Network and Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) have fired back after recent criticism by chairman of the Barbados Broadcasting Authority, Dr Allyson Leacock.
During the recent Caribbean Broadcasting Union’s (CBU) 56th Annual General Assembly, Leacock said some local programming lacked creativity and perpetuated negative stereotypes.
“While radio has its role to play in letting all voices contend, is it time for us to resist the temptation to take the lazy route of four hours of a call-in programme six days a week? I had to ask that question. To hear the same six people complain about some [half-truths], rather than create and produce dynamic, compelling programming, or the cheaper route of importing television programming with cultural stereotypes about which we complain but silently support and promote on our screens?” she asked.
While Leacock did not call any names, it is well known there is only one four-hour radio call-in programme in Barbados five days a week, and two hours and 15 minutes on Sunday, which is Down to Brass Tacks on Starcom Network. General manager Anthony Greene defended the programme’s record.
Anthony Greene, president of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union. (FP)
“We accept that there are varying views around Down To Brass Tacks. It is certainly very popular, and we are also sure that call-in radio like Down to Brass Tacks remains valuable. It gives people a voice, surfaces real issues and even provides opportunities to educate and clarify when views are biased or incomplete. We hear positive feedback constantly, and there are many who regard it as their favourite programme. That tells us that its role in informing, engaging and empowering audiences should not be underestimated,” he said.
Drawing an example of a 12-year-old who called the programme to share an experience at his school where they challenged security guards to improve customer service while commending those at the school who treated him well, Greene said the importance of the programme was evident.
“He even relayed the advice his father gave him on how to respond appropriately in such tense situations. That one call speaks volumes about the role of the programme in educating, enlightening, and giving voice to perspectives across society,” he said.
Greene, who is the president of the CBU and was in attendance when Leacock spoke, said her comments were more of a general challenge to media “to keep innovating and creating programming that reflects who we are as Caribbean people”.
“In context, her broader remarks were in line with the discussion around the creative economy, of which the media are a part, and the role of the state. It is an important topic, especially when we get to the reality of the need to push past the barriers of what is desired versus what actually exists.
“At Starcom Network, we embrace that challenge, and our partnership with the University of the West Indies, which produces Today In Bajan History, is an example of home-grown programming that tells our stories. That idea originated at Starcom Network. Do we need more like this? Of course, we do. But it comes with investment and with the right partners. We are committed to doing our part, and we are looking forward to others coming to the party,” he said.
Sanka Price, chief executive officer (CEO) of CBC, said they too, focused on local programming to the point where the majority of what was aired is either local or Afrocentric.
“Dr Leacock has a point in terms of, as a national broadcaster, CBC cannot just import only foreign programming. And we don’t. In fact, our foreign content is only around 45 per cent of our programming. And when we do bring foreign content, it has to be shows that are consistent with Barbadian values,” he said.
Price said they also had radio call-in programmes, though all but one is just two hours a day. He said much of the radio programming was home-grown, adding the CBU had awarded CBC with a best comedy award for ’Twas the night before Bajan Christmas, which aired on 94.7 FM and 100.7 QFM.
“This was created by us, and that demonstrates the quality of our work,” he said.
The CEO said they also strived to create local television programmes as well, which was more rewarding long-term.
“It is more expensive, yes, but it is culturally more appealing than importing foreign material. Right now, during CARIFESTA, it is basically close to 95 per cent programming that is either local or regional in content,” he said. (CA)
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