Greece Launches Private TV Tender Amid Controversy

ATHENS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News -30th Augst,2016) : Greece on Tuesday launched a multi-million euro auction for four private tv licences, a process originally due two decades ago and now marked by political infighting. Eight groups are vying for the four 10-year nationwide licences, with opening bids starting at three million Euros ($3.4 million). Their representatives will be locked up in an office building with no outside communication until the process is complete, a move prompting angry protests from TV managers.

Authorities say they want to clean up an industry known for workforce exploitation and rumoured under-the-table deals between media moguls, bankers and influential politicians, while bringing an end to 25 years of chaotic licensing. Government officials have noted that ever since private TV broadcasts began in Greece, channels have been allowed to operate on provisional licenses renewed 15 times since 1995. And a contract for Greece's digital TV provider was concluded two years ago with just one contestant, they note.