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Good news for supporters of Canadian content

CRTC maintains current regulatory obligations

Ottawa, July 6, 2009—The Canadian Film and Television Production Association (CFTPA) applauds the CRTC for upholding key policy objectives of the Broadcasting Act in denying requests by some Canadian broadcasters to reduce their regulatory obligations related to Canadian programming and independent production.

Last spring conventional television broadcasters appeared before the CRTC and argued the business model for over-the-air (OTA) television is broken. Some broadcasters said regulatory requirements to broadcast minimum levels of Canadian priority programming, which includes drama and documentaries, and programming produced by independent producers were a burden to them. They suggested a reduction in the requirements would be a solution to their financial challenges. The Commission did not accept their arguments.

“All players in the Canadian broadcasting system, including independent producers, have felt the impact of these trying economic times,” says Norm Bolen, President and CEO, CFTPA. “We completely agree with the CRTC that regardless of the challenges facing Canadian television broadcasters, they should broadcast an appropriate amount of Canadian programming. By maintaining current terms and conditions of licence, the CRTC has recognized the importance of Canadian programming and independent production in the Canadian broadcasting system. Any reduction to these obligations would have been a major economic and cultural step backwards from the many successes we have today.”

The CFTPA also commends the Commission for its continued desire to see the conclusion of Terms of Trade agreements between broadcasters and independent producers so as to provide stability and clarity to all concerned. The CRTC has signaled to the broadcasters that it expects specific terms in any agreements and that it will only consider seven-year broadcaster licence renewal applications next spring with finalized agreements in place.

“The CRTC has sent a very strong signal to broadcasters that it expects them to negotiate meaningful Terms of Trade agreements with the CFTPA in a timely fashion,” says Bolen. “Given the significant imbalance of power that exists between large, powerful broadcast groups and independent producers, the CRTC appears to have acknowledged that broadcasters need a strong incentive to get back to the negotiating table and come to an agreement that works for both sides.”

The CFTPA is a non-profit, trade association representing almost 400 companies in the Canadian production industry. The association promotes the general interests of Canadian producers by lobbying government on policy matters, negotiating labour agreements, and offering mentorship programs and copyright initiatives.

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For further information please call:

Anne Trueman
Director of Communications & Media
Canadian Film and Television Production Association
Tel: 613 233 1444 ex 227 | Web: www.cftpa.ca