LEADER of the Independent Parliament Group, Hon Derek Sikua has called on the Minister of Aviation and Communication to inform parliament on progress of re-establishing our TV network.

He made the call in reference to the government policy that all communities in the country have access to telecommunication networks.

In response to the question, Minister of Aviation and Communication, Hon Peter Shanel informed parliament that his ministry is making progress in its efforts to re-establish the local television network.

He said his ministry has appointed a TV board and so far three TV broadcasting applications are at his table awaiting screening process and endorsement.

“Once the applications are approved the next step is to issue them licences,” Minister Shanel explained.

Hon Shanel said that last year the ministry co-hosted a New Zealand TV programme and informed parliament that the programme allows free re-broadcasting.

He stressed that having a local TV network is important for people to have access to information in areas like sports, culture, education and social issues.

When questioned SIBC’s stance in having a TV broadcasting of its own.

Hon Shanel said that SIBC has given applications and is essential in channelling our local news whether political, social or religious.