Anime in Crisis

Sorry for the rather abrupt entry, but grave news has come to light, but firstly an Introduction. My name is Emerald Shadow and this is my first blog. I live in Northern Ireland and have been a keen collector of anime for about 4 years now. Over this time I have amassed a collection of 130+ titles and various associated manga and reference material. I don't consider myself an expert, just a run of the mill fan. This is why I started this blog. I like to air opinion and love feedback. To get to the point of this blog. It has come to my attention and the attention of other readers of Neo Magazine that the anime industry is in trouble. In an article in the current publication, Neo interviewed a Mr Roland Kelts and his concerns over the decaying state of the anime industry. His concerns involved the total monopoly TV Networks have on the material produced by the studios as well as the physical state of the studios and the emotional state of their workforce. Much, if not all the material and merchandise rights are contracted over to the network with the studios having to slave for the execs just to earn a pittance. This leaves the artists and producers working to all hours for nothing. This has caused disillusion among the staff and the young talent who are now turning away from the industry. Then there is the problem of investment in the studio properties themselves. Many of the studios are reportedly cramped and in a state of disrepair. Now as a fan I am concerned for the future of the art. I am not up on the ins and outs of trade law in Japan, but surely this practice is against the rules and if not it should be. As another personal concern, I have to wonder if there is a union in anime set up to prevent this kind of leeching of talent by the networks as well as to promote and support the up and coming talent. So I ask what is the truth and is there a way to save the future of this fine medium?