Dear Editor,
WITH REGARD TO THE LETTER published November 10 from Phyllis Yaffe of Alliance Atlantis, we certainly seek no quarrel with our friends at Showcase – they do a fine job of broadcasting quality Canadian content and we commend them for it.
But it is worth noting that a key part of the challenge of bringing Canadian programming to Canadians is ensuring it is widely accessible. Showcase reaches approximately 6.5 million households, a considerable number to be sure. But with its availability to virtually every Canadian, CBC is unique in its reach.
The important point, which I’m sure we both agree needs to be restated loudly and often, is that there is demand – arguably inexhaustible – for quality Canadian programming that speaks to Canadians and their experiences. The CBC is able to respond to that demand despite considerable challenges.
We again commend Showcase for its efforts and invite other Canadian broadcasters to join us.
Richard Stursberg
Executive Vice-President
English Television
CBC/Radio-Canada
