Guernsey States streaming a step closer

Guernsey States meetings could be broadcast online for the first time by the start of 2014, according to the department responsible.

The States Assembly and Constitution Committee (SACC) said it hoped to overcome restrictions on broadcasting debates to launch the service.

Deputy Matt Fallaize, chairman of the SACC, said it was all part of making government more accountable.

Decisions about responsibility for the streaming had delayed the process.

Broadcasting traditionally falls under the umbrella of the Home Department but because the streaming would specifically involve States meetings, it was agreed the States Assembly and Constitution Committee should take it on.

For that to happen, the Policy Council must formally propose a change in the mandate of the two groups.

A 1983 resolution allowing the media access to audio from States debates was written in a way that banned television and effectively banned online streaming.

The Policy Council said a report on the issue should be put to deputies in May.

The SACC said, if given the go-ahead, it expects to be able to move quickly.

Currently islanders can only listen by tuning in to BBC Guernsey's 1116 MW or sitting in the public gallery.