OTTAWA – CBC/Radio-Canada applauds the CRTC’s decision to have satellite television providers carry more local television stations, noting it could be the shot in the arm that some of them need.
Responding to Wednesday’s revised satellite distribution policy, the Corp called the new rules “a critical step” in strengthening local programming in Canada.
“Local stations provide a fundamental public service to their communities”, said Steven Guiton, VP and chief regulatory officer, in a statement. “They help citizens connect with their local government, businesses, schools and community organizations. They help define, build and sustain the local culture and local democracy. Our five-year strategy, Everyone, Every Way, commits us to strengthening our regional presence across the country. Having local stations available to everyone is key to achieving that goal.”
The policy revision means that by January 1st 2013, Shaw Direct will begin offering the local stations from St. John’s, Fredericton, Charlottetown and Windsor on the CBC side, and Rimouski, Saguenay, Trois-Rivières, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Toronto and Regina on the Radio-Canada side.
By August 31st 2012, Bell TV’s lineup will include the local stations from Fredericton, Charlottetown and Windsor on the CBC side, and Rimouski, Saguenay, Trois-Rivière, Toronto and Regina on the Radio-Canada side.
