Minister for Heritage, Alun Ffred Jones, has called on the Department of Culture, Media and Sport not to ignore its statutory duties over S4C funding.
Mr Jones today (22 September) told Assembly Members that he was concerned about reports of proposed funding cuts and reiterated the Assembly Government’s support for the channel.
“In approaching 30 years of operation, S4C has played a leading role in promoting and safeguarding the Welsh language by bringing it into people’s homes every day,” he said.
“S4C has a key role to play in ensuring that the Welsh language continues to thrive. In this regard, its role is more than just a broadcaster.
“S4C has also greatly contributed to the growth in the independent media sector and to Wales’ wider creative economy. The creative industries make a vital contribution to our economy and have been recognised as a key sector in our plans to lead Wales to economic recovery.”
Mr Jones said there were good reasons for legislation which guaranteed a certain level of funding for S4C.
“S4C was created by statute to ensure the organisations’ long term stability and independence. Its duties, responsibilities and its funding arrangements were laid down in law for very good reason,” he said.
“DCMS should not ignore its statutory obligations towards the channel – and neither can it forget that S4C is a public service broadcaster not a Government Department or non-departmental government body.
“S4C should be treated in the same way as other public service broadcasters when it comes to discussions about its long term future and funding.”
Mr Jones added that he had sought assurances from the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Jeremy Hunt MP that proposed cuts do not result in S4C’s funding falling below the amount calculated in the Broadcasting Act 1990, and he would be meeting him next week to discuss the matter.
