New local, community programming framework offers lifeline to local news

OTTAWA-GATINEAU – Underscoring its support of local content, the CRTC has set new minimum thresholds for local news on the country’s private TV broadcasters plus will establish a new fund for independent stations.Announced Wednesday, the Commission’s new policy framework for local and community television offers the big private broadcasters flexibility to keep local stations open and fund the production of local news programming, a “rebalancing” that it says could make up to $67 million available for local news.In addition, the CRTC will create the Independent Local News Fund, providing independent stations in Victoria, Prince George, Kamloops, Medicine Hat, Lloydminster, Thunder Bay,...