GATINEAU – In the CBC’s application to the CRTC for a new digital transmitter for CBAT-TV in New Brunswick, the Corp proposes to cease over-the-air television broadcasting in Saint John, N.B.
“The analog transmitter associated with CBAT-TV is located on Mount Champlain and provides service to both Fredericton and Saint John,” notes the Commission’s summary of the CBC’s application. “The proposed digital transmitter would be located in Fredericton and would provide service only to that market. The proposal would therefore result in a loss of over-the-air television service to the residents of Saint John.”
The city has a population of about 126,000.
“The new transmitter would operate on channel 19 with an average effective radiated power (PAR) of 3,900 watts (maximum ERP of 7,800 watts directional antenna with an effective height of antenna above average terrain of 102.8 metres).”
The CRTC noted in its release that this application is not in compliance with a couple of things. First is Notice No. SMBR-006-08 – Publication of the Digital Television (DTV) Post-Transition Allotment Plan of the Department of Industry since the CBC is proposing to use channel 19 instead of its allotted channel (channel 42).
“The Commission also notes that this application is inconsistent with Revised licensing framework for over-the-air digital television services, Broadcasting Regulatory Policy CRTC 2010-69, 10 February 2010, as the licensee is not proposing digital coverage that matches the current analog coverage.
“In this regard, the Commission stated broadcasters should, to the greatest extent possible, ensure that Canadians do not lose access to free over-the-air television services as a result of the transition to digital television. The Commission indicates that this application would decrease the potential viewership in the regional service area by 62.5%, (from 303,465 to 113,930).”
The deadline to submit interventions on this application is February 17.
