MUNSU votes to cut ties with campus radio station, eliminate funding

The Memorial University Students' Union has voted to eliminate CHMR-FM as a service.

Close to 130 people attended a Memorial University Students’ Union board meeting Wednesday night following a controversial motion to shut down the province’s only campus radio station, CHMR, that was first introduced at the union’s March 18 meeting.

CHMR has a long history at Memorial University’s St. John’s campus, dating back roughly 75 years. It began as a radio club before evolving into an AM carrier current service, eventually moving to its current 93.5 FM frequency in 1987.

Before the board voted, students, volunteers, staff and members of the public were given the opportunity to speak on the proposed closure. The final decision, however, was made in-camera. The motion ultimately passed as presented, eliminating all discretionary funding and support from the students’ union. That funding has historically made up the majority of CHMR’s revenue and covered key expenses, including salaries.

It remains unclear what the full impact of the decision will be on the station’s future. However, there is some indication CHMR may be able to continue operating independently.
In an interview with BayFM on Monday, MUNSU Director of External Affairs Nathan Gillingham said the station will continue to receive its media levy, which totals approximately $51,000 annually.

Questions also remain about the future of CHMR’s studio facilities and equipment, currently housed in the University Centre.

The students’ union is expected to provide further details during a media availability scheduled for 11:50 a.m. Thursday morning. BayFM will be in attendance and will bring you the details.