THE SABC COULD CHARGE YOU FOR WATCHING NETFLIX
If the SABC has its way, you’ll soon be paying them when watching streaming channels like Netflix or Disney+.
SABC CEO Nomsa Chabeli said the development of a funding model for the SABC “must be expedited” and that interventions are needed now to help the corporation.
She made the statement while speaking to the portfolio committee on communications and digital technologies last week.
Chabeli said the SABC can’t wait the three years it could take the communications minister to develop a new funding model for the public broadcaster.
“Funding for the SABC is a burning issue and therefore an interim mechanism is required to ensure SABC’s interim viability and sustainability while we develop the bill as well as a new funding model framework. This is critical, especially when it comes to the funding of the public interest mandate.”
One of the suggestions made by the SABC is to enlist the help of MultiChoice and Sars in the collection of the fees.
TechCentral reports that this means platforms like DStv and even streaming services like Netflix could be compelled to collect levies on behalf of the public broadcaster. Under this proposal, subscriptions could even be contingent on the customer producing a TV licence.
Image credit: The Citizen