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CFTPA Comments on the CRTC approval of BGM restructuring

Guy Mayson, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Film and Television Production Association commented on the CRTC decision concerning Bell Globemedia:

"We’re disappointed the CRTC ruled that this transaction does not constitute a transfer of effective control of Bell Globemedia and no public benefits are required," said Guy Mayson, President and CEO of the Canadian Film and Television Production Association. "We agree with the dissenting Commissioner that the regulations afford the CRTC wide discretion to determine where effective control lies and that a benefits package should have been required as part of the transaction."

"However, we are pleased that the Commission’s decision acknowledges that a "loophole" exists in its benefits policy when multi-step transactions occur," Mayson added. "The decision states that in future, the CRTC intends to review all previous steps in order to establish the appropriate level of benefits to be assessed."

"Given recent media reports speculating that BCE plans to reduce its stake in Bell Globemedia further, going forward we urge the CRTC to ensure that adequate contributions are made to the Canadian broadcasting system."

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For more information on this, please contact:

Jeff Brinton
Director of Communications and Media
Canadian Film and Television Production Association