Vertical Integration: EastLink, Cogeco, CCSA members and CBC demand hard and fast rules

By Perry Hoffman

GATINEAU - A code of conduct for vertically integrated broadcast and distribution groups, content exclusivity on mobile and the need for a skinny basic package were the primary discussion points discussion during the fourth day of the CRTC’s examination of vertical integration.EastLink noted during its opening remarks that access to content is a “critical driver” of not only its cable distribution service, but for all of its services, and therefore rules need to be established to ensure equitable access to content.“Programming services dictate contract terms requiring distribution in high penetration packages, packaging requirements and, in some cases, with the right...