OTTAWA – At the CRTC hearing into Rogers Communications’ purchase of Citytv, actors union ACTRA has asked the CRTC to establish new standards for benefits packages flowing from such acquisitions.
"We need new standards for benefits packages so Canadians can see a real increase in Canadian drama on television. We’re asking the CRTC to calculate benefits based on the full value of the purchase and ensure that two-thirds of benefits are directed to 10-point Canadian drama," said Richard Hardacre, ACTRA national president, in a press release.
ACTRA is opposing Rogers’ application unless it enhances its drama commitment and directs it exclusively to 10-point Canadian productions.
"ACTRA challenges Rogers to add to its offering and take concrete action to support English-Canadian drama. If they do so, we will support this application," said Hardacre. Rogers has already offered a benefits package of $39.5 million, as Cartt.ca has already reported.
ACTRA’s submission on the Rogers’ acquisition asks that 75% of the Allan Waters Canadian Content Initiative and the script and concept development fund be allocated to drama programming and that these funds be directed exclusively to 10-point Canadian productions.
"Any strategy must include the CRTC reinstating strong regulations requiring Canadian broadcasters, who use public airwaves, to financially support, appropriately schedule and aggressively promote Canadian dramas," Hardacre added.
