Backlash over Top TV's porn

VARIOUS organisations remain opposed to Top TV's pornography channels despite the licence being granted to air them in the country.

The South African Council of Churches, Cosatu and Sonke Gender Justice Network see pornography as demeaning to women.

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa granted the Television On Digital Media (operating as Top TV) the licence to air three adult-content channels, namely Playboy TV, Desire TV and Private Spice, within the watershed period from 8pm to 5am.

Cosatu spokesman Patrick Craven said they remained opposed to pornographic material on television, adding: "There is a possibility of us going as far as appealing the decision."

Sonke Gender Justice Network spokesman Mbuyiselo Botha said parents needed to be involved in ensuring that their children were protected, and that South Africa was facing high rates of sexual violence, so nothing was needed to add to this. - nkosin@sowetan.co.za