Sex on TV: Icasa to make a ruling

SOUTH Africans will have to wait a little longer to find out whether pornography channels will be allowed to broadcast in the country.

This comes after TopTV yesterday presented its case to the Independent Communication Authority of South Africa (Icasa) to broadcast three subscription-based "adult-themed channels".

The CEO of TopTV, Eddie Mbalo, said Icasa would deliberate further and that it was not yet clear when Icasa would make a decision.

Mbalo denied reports that the network was in financial trouble and that the channels were a way to get money into the network.

"This is not what would save TopTV. We need a cash injection, and we are looking for a partner to help with that," he said.

This is the network's second application.

The application to air the 24-hour porn channels has been met with opposition from Cosatu and the South African Council of Churches.

A snap survey by Sowetan on the plan showed that some readers feel the channels would add to the moral decadence already in the country. Most were concerned about its exposure to children.

However Mbalo said: "Children already have access to these things because they have access to cellphones and computers. - nkosin@sowetan.co.za

What readers say about this:

• Bheki Mkani, 28: "It is not my kind of thing. I would not encourage it because children watch these things and can be influenced."
• Peter Joel, 54: "Maybe it would be a good idea. I am generally against censorship. Parents have influence over young children. If their parenting is okay then it should be okay."
• Salome Motlana, 66: "I don't want to see such things. Children will even do it in front of us because of what they see on these channels."
• Henry Okologo, 27: "I think the channels are okay. Sometimes you get shy to buy porn DVDs. This world is liberal. You are only influenced by things if you choose to be."
• Ian Moyo, 26: "I don't want to watch it. It's fine if it's on TV. If you want to watch it then you do, if not then you don't have to watch it."
• Xolani Moloele, 21: "It's a good idea because there are people out there who feel the need to watch porn channels. I'd say yes but under strong supervision."
• Sibusisiwe Gumede, 20: "It is not a good idea in South Africa. Porn is still a taboo in most cultures in the country. Teenagers will watch it and get curious, which could lead to teenage pregnancy."
• Lilly Phathela, 53: "It's not good. What do children learn from these things? There is no education in it. Children will be confused if they watch it. If parents watch it then their children will watch it too."
• Kabelo Matsepe, 25: "It can't be allowed in South Africa. With the high rates of abuse and rape, it's not a good idea."