May help 45 South

The Waitaki District Council may get involved in securing the long-term future of North Otago television broadcaster 45 South.

Mayor Alex Familton said yesterday the council needed "to maximise" its support for 45 South, which it is feared may cease broadcasting after 2013 because it has no digital licence.

The Government had given no undertaking 45 South's licence would be rolled over, apart from offering two options, which were too expensive.

Cr Jim Hopkins said at the council's meeting yesterday 45 South was "a significant asset and benefit" for a town of Oamaru's size.

He suggested the council get involved.

Mr Familton said while the Government had broad funding for television, it appeared communities such as Oamaru were being unfairly targeted for savings.