Last update - 00:00 14/06/2007
IBA considering merger between English-language TV, radio staffs
The Israel Broadcast Authority is considering merging English-language radio and television news in an attempt to cut costs, Haaretz has learned. If approved by the IBA management committee next week, the change would go into effect immediately, IBA spokesperson Linda Bar said.
"We are considering unifying the two divisions, together with other cost-saving measures," Bar said. "These are steps that will help ensure that we keep our head above water in the next few months."
She said that the move would not include layoffs, but that employees may have less shifts as a result.
The potential merger, however, could present some logistical difficulties. Television studios for the English news are located in Jerusalem's Romema neighborhood, while radio broadcasts are in the Russian Compound in another part of the city.
Employees, meanwhile, say they would support the idea if it ensured the future of English-language public radio and television.
"A lot of questions would need to be answered before it became feasible, but I am not opposed to it," said Steve Leibowitz, editor of IBA English television news. "We could work out the details. Our viewers wouldn't even notice, and that's the bottom line. We will do it if that's what we need to keep our broadcast."
As part of the cutbacks, the entire English-language television news may also be moved to Channel One. As of now, only a short news bulletin is broadcast on Channel One, with the full program available on Channel 33. As part of cuts, IBA may temporarily shut down Channel 33 and broadcast English news on Channel One at a different time slot. Decisions regarding the Channel 33 move, as well as the possible merger, are expected Tuesday.