Guernsey States removes charities music licence exemption
A government subsidy will help charities measure the impact of the removal of an exemption on paying for music licences.
The States agreed to revoke the law allowing charities to play music without a licence this week.
Kate Raleigh, Association of Guernsey Charities chairwoman, said it was "impossible to tell at this stage" what the impact on fundraising would be.
She said a States fund would help charities work through the change.
The Commerce and Employment Department has set up a subsidiary scheme up to the value £3,000 to help pay for the costs of the licences, which are about £100 each.
'Usage is exempt'
Mrs Raleigh said: "This fund will help charities offset the costs over the first year, then they can judge whether these costs can be justified in the longer term."
She said some groups already have to pay for a PRS (Performing Rights Society) licence or a PPL (Phonographic Performance Limited) licence.
Mrs Raleigh said: "Many organisations were worried about this to begin with, but luckily some have now found that their usage is exempt to music licensing.
"Charities can check whether any music they use regularly or for special events may not be covered by this change."
She said information was available from the PRS and PPL websites and from the Guernsey Registry.