Artistes and entertainers stage city march for more airplay

Local artistes and entertainers in Trinidad and Tobago gathered for the third time in three years, to march through the streets of Port of Spain calling for 50 percent  airplay of their work on radio and television. From 3 pm yesterday they  gathered at Woodford Square, then marched around the Square and Red House to the strains of steelband music.
It was the first time that the pan fraternity was represented at the march in such a way.

Rubadiri Victor, Secretary of the Recording Industry Association of Trinidad and Tobago (RIATT) said: “Today’s march is the second in the series of activities.  We have to bring government to the bargaining table to get these long outstanding demands — 50 percent local content radio and television, but it goes beyond that. There is a 15-part legislative agenda going across the entire cultural industry, as well as five institutional complexes that need to be built for Carnival and steelband along with a national performance arts centre.”

He added that some government and opposition members have expressed support, as well as some independent senators, but said: “The thing is that we have to convert that support into real legislation.”

Making an early appearance at the march was veteran musician Roy Cape who stated: “My presence here signifies support for the struggle that we want 50 percent local music”.

Also among the gathering was Michael Legerton, President of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) who said that he’s been calling for the 50 percent airplay for the longest while. “We need more local airplay. It straight and it simple. More local airplay! End of story!” ended Legerton.