“It’s unfortunate that Lin Media, a corporate media conglomerate, pulled its channels down. Even more disappointing is the fact that Lin Media didn’t even make an effort to keep negotiating during the final hours and failed to respond despite our numerous attempts to reach them,” said Dave Shull, senior vice president of programing for Dish.
Shull said Lin Media refused to grant a contract extension proposed by Dish and then increased its fees, demanding more than a 175 percent rate increase in the first year.
Lin said it has “worked tirelessly” to negotiate with Dish and talks continue. Lin also said that Dish removed the signals over its objection.
The FCC met this week to propose changes to the retransmission consent process between broadcasters and pay-TV operators.
Lin is based in Providence. R.I. Dish Network Corp. is headquartered in Englewood, Colo.