TORONTO – After over a month of uncertainty and facing a serious funding shortfall, the Canadian Television Fund said today it welcomes the CRTC Task Force on TV production funding.
“The CTF is a dynamic organization,” said Douglas Barrett, CTF chair, in a press release. “We continually evolve to ensure our policies, programs and operations meet the needs of all our clients and stakeholders. The CTF welcomes the opportunity to work with (vice-chair broadcasting Michel) Arpin and the CRTC Task Force to examine the issues and improve the stability and strength of the Canadian television industry.”
The CTF is concerned and recognizes that the events over the past few weeks have been destabilizing to the Canadian television production industry, and acknowledges the important efforts taken by both Minister of Canadian Heritage Bev Oda and CRTC Chairman Konrad von Finckenstein, adds its statement.
The CTF is pleased with the resumption of mandated monthly payments by Shaw Communications and Videotron and acknowledges this action as a critical step to bring stability to the television industry as the CRTC undertakes its important initiative.
“The resumption of monthly payments is crucial – especially now as we soon must announce 2007-2008 funding allocations,” added Valerie Creighton, CTF president.
