THE Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) is urging broadcasters to get their acts together as it announces its intention to ensure that the Persons with Disabilities Act 2012 is upheld in the broadcasting landscape.

The Persons with Disabilities Act 2012, Chapter 36:05 Sec 26 (1), (2) stipulates that (1) within 10 years of the coming into operation of this Act or a later date that the minister may prescribe, the person in charge of every national television station shall provide a sign language inset or subtitles in at least one newscast programme daily and special programmes covering events of national significance; (2) any person who fails to comply with subsection one (1) commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $100,000 (one hundred thousand dollars) and to imprisonment for six months.

In a statement on Thursday, the GNBA reiterated its commitment to development of a broadcasting landscape that makes provision for all Guyanese, irrespective of their differences. It was noted that at a recent Stakeholder Engagement and Christmas luncheon on December 14, the Board Chairman Leslie Sobers assured broadcasters that the GNBA will be placing emphasis on creating an accessible broadcasting environment for all, with a particular focus on persons with disabilities.

In making his statement, Sobers reportedly pointed to provisions of the Persons with Disabilities Act for the benefit of broadcasters, emphasising the need for broadcasters to comply within the timeframe set out in the Act.

The GNBA said it will be focusing on levelling the playing field through equal access to information and/or broadcast content for all our citizens. “GNBA is cognisant of the need for equality and the rights of those persons with particular needs, who find it onerous to understand what is being broadcast on television. The implementation of closed captioning or sign language will essentially alleviate many of the challenges experienced by persons with hearing impairment,” the authority said, while urging broadcasters to put themselves in order as part of their social responsibility.