TORONTO – Indie Pool, which says it represents more than 20,000 Canadian artists, today called the appeal began yesterday by others in the creative community “irresponsible”.
Click here to read the www.cartt.ca story on the topic.
“We are disappointed that this ground-breaking decision may be appealed," said Gregg Terrence, president of Indie Pool. "One week ago, the CRTC opened the door for 20,000 Canadian independent artists with the licensing of satellite radio in Canada. Today, we are flabbergasted to learn that this landmark decision that will offer so much to our Canadian artists, will likely be appealed by various groups."
As the grey market continues to expand into Canada, millions of dollars that could be used to support Canadian artists are being lost, says the group’s press release. "The CRTC understands that by giving licence approval it is allowing Canadians to embrace the benefits of satellite radio instead of letting the grey market control the Canadian market," said Terrence. "If the grey market takes over, there will be a lot less money and airplay for Canadian artists. It is that simple."
The CRTC’s decision included millions of dollars for Canadian artist development and a provision within Canadian content requiring that 25 percent of the airplay be that of emerging, or unsigned Canadian artists, explains the release. "Royalties resulting from expanded exposure across North America could reach millions of dollars and the airplay and monetary contributions towards Canadian talent development will have an unprecedented impact on our future stars," said Terrence. "This is a gift horse that we cannot ignore."
Providers of satellite radio made a commitment of upwards of $60 million to Canadian talent development which is the highest of its kind, by any kind of broadcaster in Canada. In fact, this offering outpaces the combined contributions of all current radio broadcasters, continues the statement.
