CRTC tweaks dispute resolution process

OTTAWA - The CRTC has updated its dispute resolution practices and procedures for disagreements that fall under either the Broadcasting Act or the Telecommunications Act.The May 28 information bulletin says that the move reflects changes in the broadcasting regulatory environment as a result of its Let’s Talk TV policy and to its Wholesale Code that governs the commercial arrangements between broadcasting distribution undertakings (BDUs), programmers and exempt digital media undertakings.Specifically, the bulletin sets out various Commission practices plus procedural steps and time limitations that will apply to each of the following five dispute resolution mechanisms: staff-assisted mediation, final offer arbitration, expedited hearings, non-binding staff opinion, and...