The Malta Communications Authority said it is extremely mindful of the concerns being voiced by consumers regarding access to broadcast content as well as changes in tariffs.

In a statement, the MCA said that the recent developments are a result of a number of factors including technological developments, the advent of competition in TV distribution, and in particular the acquisition of exclusive rights to transmit content that was traditionally viewed for free.

The Authority acknowledged the frustration among consumers as a result of these overnight developments and said that many had contacted the MCA seeking appropriate intervention.

The authority said it has taken note of these concerns and is seeking to ensure that they are addressed appropriately.

It has been working in conjunction with a number of regulatory bodies including the Office for Fair Competition, the Department responsible for Consumer Protection, the Intellectual Property Office (with regard to copyright) and the Broadcasting Authority, all of which come into play in this complex

matter.

These authorities are looking into the matter with urgency to ensure that, should any action be warranted, this is taken in short order.

In this regard, meetings with all interested parties including the operators concerned are being held, the MCA said. In relation to the issues raised, the Authority said that, as of the date of coming into force of the new legal framework for electronic communications, the MCA no longer regulates tariffs charged to subscribers for broadcast content.

On the issue of exclusive rights to content, “the Authority understands that rights’ holders, for example, Fifa, may grant exclusive rights to certain content and such rights cannot be infringed. It is for this reason that certain content is being blocked. This notwithstanding, fair competition and consumer protection must always be

safeguarded”.

The MCA said that every effort is being made to ensure that Melita and Multiplus subscribers are provided access to programming where this is possible without infringement on commercial rights of parties who have distribution rights to such programming.