MONTREAL – Bell Media has signed an agreement with the Alliance des producteurs francophones du Canada (APFC) designed to support and foster independent Canadian French-language productions.
Concluded specifically for Bell Media's French-language specialty and pay television services, the five-year renewable agreement details the general principles of a trade agreement that aims to cut the administrative and legal costs of transactions between Bell Media and independent producers, plus streamline the process for independent production companies.
The broadcaster said that this initiative is part of its commitment – within the framework of its acquisition of Astral – to invest $246.9 million in new benefits to develop English- and French-language television, radio and film content, support emerging musical talent, promote the development of media industry professionals and create initiatives to increase consumer involvement.
"This agreement clearly demonstrates Bell Media's commitment to highlight independent French-language productions and allow Francophone consumers to enjoy the talent, creativity, and ingenuity of Canadian creators," said Charles Benoît, Bell Media’s president, television and radio – Québec, in the announcement. "The establishment of general principles for trade agreements will facilitate market access for these productions and allow us to offer more diversified quality programming, to the benefit of the entire industry."
Charles Benoît is pictured with Natalie McNeil, executive director for Alliance des producteurs francophones du Canada
