"The decision to cancel Ogre Television's broadcasting wasn't easy. We have repeatedly met with all the parties, including the National Electronic Mass Media Council; however [...] this was the only way to keep the debt from growing," said Jānis Bokta, Chairman of the LVRTC Council.
LVRTC broadcast five free digital channels since June 2014, but the removal of Ogre Television will make broadcasting cost more for others.
LVRTC is the main operator of the country’s terrestrial radio and television broadcasting network.
OTV weren't surprised about the decision, though they think the other party wasn't too forthcoming.
Dace Gusarova, the head of OTV, said that the total amount they owe is 158,000 euro. "Politicians say that national media has to be strengthened, but when we do it no one comes with neither financial nor any other aid," added Gusarova.
All of the employees at OTV have been warned that their contracts are likely to be ended.
As of July 2, OTV is no longer available at Lattelecom Television, which provides the distribution of public-access channels.
