Commissioners from the National Communications Commission (NCC) yesterday chose Bonnie Peng (彭芸), a journalism professor at National Chengchi University, as the new NCC chairwoman.
Commissioner Chen Cheng-tsan (陳正倉) was selected as the commission’s vice chairman. Chen is currently an economics professor at National Taiwan University.
The fact that Peng was elected was no surprise to many, as she was the only commissioner who clearly indicated that she “was willing to consider the possibility” of becoming chairperson during a review session at the Legislative Yuan last month.
PHOTO: CNA
Peng’s predecessor, Su Yeong-ching (蘇永欽), handed her the official seal during an inauguration ceremony yesterday morning.
While a ruling from the Council of Grand Justices in 2006 said that Su and the other eight commissioners could stay in their positions until December this year, the NCC members decided to step down early in January. However, their resignation was postponed as the Executive Yuan had trouble finding replacements.
Su said in a speech yesterday that the appointment of the new NCC commissioners came at a perfect time.
He said that he believed that the commission could run independently and would “try not to be too cozy” with the Executive Yuan.
Peng, on the other hand, said what she could bring to the commission was the aspiration to “dream big.”
“While we are seeking advancement in communication technology, we also need to pay attention to issues concerning cultural diversity and take care of the economically disadvantaged,” she said.
In addition to Peng and Chen, the other five commissioners — Hsieh Chin-nan (謝進男), Liu Chorng-jian (劉崇堅), Weng Hsiao-ling (翁曉玲), Lee Ta-sung (李大嵩) and Chung Chi-hui (鍾起惠) — met with reporters for the first time and talked about what and how they could contribute to the operations of the NCC.
Weng, an expert in technology law and the legal specialist on the team, said she aims to address similarities and differences among different communications laws and try to impose one consistent regulation on all telecom service operators.
Lee said he would address issues concerning more efficient use of the nation’s radio spectrum and new communications platforms.
Chung, on the other hand, said she would aim to reinforce the self-discipline of the media.
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