VOD service ignites community programming debate

OTTAWA - The CRTC has granted VidéOptique Inc. a broadcasting licence to operate a regional video-on-demand (VOD) service in parts of Quebec.But support for the service, at least in its current form, was not unanimous. Commissioner Michel Morin filed a dissenting opinion against the decision and accused the CRTC of “beating around the bush and displaying a flagrant lack of leadership” on the issue of community programming.In its application, the yet unnamed service said that it would consist primarily of feature films, non-live events, children’s programming, archival television programming and adult programming, predominantly in French.But the Fédération des télévisions communautaires autonomes du Québec and...