Poland’s National Broadcasting Council (KRRiT) ruled that Telewizja Republika must pay overdue concession fees and accrued interest after failing to provide required documentation.
Broadcaster’s Appeal Rejected
Telewizja Republika’s request to waive interest on late concession fee payments was rejected by the KRRiT. The station did not submit all necessary documentation to support its appeal, leading the Council to dismiss the case.
As a result, Telewizja Republika is obligated to pay the full outstanding amount, including accumulated interest, as determined by the KRRiT.
Payment Plan and Prolongation Fee
In 2024, the KRRiT approved a payment plan for Telewizja Republika, allowing the station to pay its 10-year concession fee in annual installments, as permitted by broadcasting law. This arrangement includes an additional prolongation fee.
Telewizja Republika subsequently requested to further divide these annual installments into smaller, self-determined payments, a request not provided for in the relevant legislation. The station reported making another installment payment in February.
Outstanding Debt and Enforcement
As of today, Telewizja Republika’s debt totals approximately 120,000 PLN, with an additional 22,000 PLN in accrued interest. This interest applies to the current outstanding balance, not the total concession fee amount.
The KRRiT has initiated debt collection proceedings, and the tax office is obligated to recover the funds. Failure to pay may result in a freeze on the station’s bank accounts.
Compliance with Concession Rules
Paying concession fees is a requirement of participating in the competition for a place on the multipleX-8. Telewizja Republika was granted a concession and agreed to the payment terms.
Failure to adhere to the payment schedule results in the accrual of interest, as would be the case in any commercial transaction.
Station Claims Proposed Waiver
The President and Editor-in-Chief of Telewizja Republika stated on Wednesday evening that the remaining interest on the concession fee had been paid. They claim the KRRiT had proposed waiving the interest as part of a de minimis aid program, and that all necessary documents were submitted.
Background on Telewizja Republika
Founded in 2013, Telewizja Republika is a news and public affairs channel. Its editor-in-chief is Tomasz Sakiewicz. In 2024, the station secured a concession to broadcast on the national MUX-8 multiplex, significantly expanding its reach.
The 10-year concession for terrestrial broadcasting is valued at 17.85 million PLN, requiring annual payments of 1.85 million PLN by September 1st.
Funds Allocated to Public Media
The KRRiT also unanimously approved the allocation of nearly 16.5 million PLN from broadcasting license fees to five public media companies, returning funds from a deposit account held by the Minister of Finance.
The funds will be distributed to Polish Radio (11,319,000 PLN) and regional stations in Katowice, Koszalin, Wrocław, and Opole.