Ontario Culture Minister Madeleine Meilleur refuses to guarantee that projected cuts to TVO and TFO funding will not impact their programming.
NHL lockout pushes ratings down at Rogers Sportnet, The Score, TSN and the CBC.
CBC advertising revenues have plummeted to 1998 levels, while those of private broadcasters have increased.
Voice of the Listener & Viewer annouces that it will hold a February Conference regarding public service broadcasting in Europe and in the Commonwealth.
U.S. broadcast journalist Bill Moyers explains the purpose of public broadcasting in interview on National Public Radio interview show, Fresh Air with Terry Fross.
Culture section of the pre-budget report of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance, in which the Standing Committee recommended that the federal government increase funding for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and Radio-Canada.
Article says Gemini Awards too focused on Toronto productions, do not help to advance Canadian star system.
The future looks bleak for the Canadian film and television industry, although innovative programming gives reason for hope.
FRIENDS policy advice to the Minister of Canadian Heritage recommends that any allocation of new resources to CBC be at least 80% dedicated to improving CBC’s grassroots capacity across the country.
The BBC intends to launch the Creative Archive Project which would give British Internet users free access to the corporation's catalogue records for non-commercial use.
As the BBC comes under increasing pressure with respect to its licence fee, the broadcaster has announced some of the deepest cuts in its history.
BBC proceeds with plan to cut 10% of work force, mainly in non-programming areas.
Pierre Berton's Canadian stories attracted an audience both at home and abroad.
Article says it remains to be seen whether newest BBC director-general can actually implement the changes that will follow from his review of the organization.
Article says that a guaranteed licence fee and lengthened charter are needed to save the BBC.
The UK broadcasting regulator has advocated £300m be invested to create a Public Service Publisher.
Article says that changes in the media/broadcasting market structure caused by new digital technologies will make the licence fee UK residents pay for the BBC more relevant then ever.
BBC director-general's plan for overhaul that could cost 6,000 jobs fails to receive approval from BBC Chairman.
BBC chairman Micheal Grade proposes that the corporation hold a "virtual annual general meeting" so as to be more accountable to licence fee payers.
Minister says that sale of the public broadcaster TVOntario to a private broadcaster remains an option, but not one the government will consider in the near future.
The British Government wants impartiality and accuracy standards for broadcast journalism written into the BBC's Charter.
Throughout The Greatest Canadian, the CBC managed to secure ratings that were consistently between 500,000 and 1.1 million.
Editorial praises TVO, says slashing $3-million from its budget can only harm its quality.
Pierre Berton made a profound contribution to Canadian culture, including broadcasting.
Projected TVO budget cuts feared as precursor to TVO privatization.
Conservative leader addresses convention of Canadian private broadcasters, states that the Conservative Party would "seek to reduce CBC's dependence on advertising revenue and its competition with the private sector for these valuable dollars".
Minister of Canadian Heritage hints that the federal government's upcoming financial review may reallocate funds from other sectors to television and film.
Minister of Canadian Heritage says CBC must reconnect with the regions.
Executive director of CBC network programming responds to National Post columnist, says CBC's responsibilities extend beyond ratings.
Transcript of presentations to Finance Committee pre-budget consultations by FRIENDS and others.
Three year reappointment of Robert Rabinovitch as CBC President receives Heritage Committee approval.
Chris Haddock, creator of acclaimed series Da Vinci's Inquest, calls public broadcasting "the most valuable thing we can continue to defend".
FRIENDS tells Finance Committee pre-budget consultations that CBC needs $100 million in new funding annually if it is to adequately discharge its local and regional responsibilities under the Broadcasting Act.
Funding cuts have forced CBC to become dependent on sports programming in order to meet statutory obligations.
Columnist argues Canada's cultural sovereignty is not under threat.
Lower ratings at the CBC are a sign of stale programming, article claims.
CBC President Robert Rabinovitch seeks permanent funding to restore CBC local and regional programming capacity on English television.
Members of the House of Commons Heritage Committee question CBC President Robert Rabinovitch pursuant to an order-in-council proposing his reappointment for three years.
In an extraordinary development, CBC president tells media scrum about plans for CBC local/regional programming after refusing to tell parliamentary committee about them.
BBC is reportedly headed for serious cutbacks in anticipation of value for money report.
FRIENDS criticizes Robert Rabinovitch for failing to protect regional programming in a mock report card grading his performance.
FRIENDS gives Robert Rabinovitch a C minus for his performance as CBC president.
Minister of Heritage Liza Frulla says Canada needs more public television, will push to restore CBC news services in the regions.
FRIENDS gives CBC President Robert Rabinovitch a C- for his performance on a variety of performance measures, including CBC funding, regional programming, Canadian content, and CBC Radio.
Movie Night in Canada unlikely to generate same advertising revenue as Hockey Night in Canada despite similar ratings.
Government supplementary estimates point to a permanent 10 million dollar budget cut for the CBC.
With Rabinovitch's generally solid record, his term is likely to be extended, groups say.
Government says reappointment of CBC President ultimately a decision for cabinet, but views of Heritage Committee, to which the proposal has been referred, will be taken into account.
Executive Director of CBC English TV network programming, Slawko Klymkiw, discusses CBC programming strategy.
Sources say the initial offer made to Robert Rabinovitch was for a two-year term, rather then the three he accepted.
PMO proposal to reappoint current CBC president Robert Rabinovitch viewed as safe choice.
Prime Minister's Office proposes the extension of Robert Rabinovitch's term; he is scheduled to appear before the Canadian heritage committee in the next few weeks.
Author discusses the debate over the mandate, financing, governance and programming focus of the BBC.
Prime Minister Martin proposes to reappoint Robert Rabinovitch CBC president, if a parliamentary committee approves.
Groups say decision to refer CBC presidency proposal to parliamentary committee is a step in the right direction but that ultimately, the board should make the appointment.
Columnist criticizes CHUM satellite radio bid, saying all that is missing is channels dedicated "to the sound of loons and maple syrup".
Prime Minister Martin hands off Rabinovitch reappointment to the Commons heritage committee and the cabinet; groups say this is an improvement but maintain that decision should ultimately be made by the board of directors.
FRIENDS commends Prime Minister’s decision to refer the appointment of the next CBC President to the House of Commons Heritage Committee for review.
CBC foray into reality television controversial, and a ratings challenge.
Columnist praises CBC English-language drama Da Vinci's Inquest.
Editorial criticizes Paul Martin Liberals for failing to end patronage in appointments to Crown corporations, advocates that Crown boards should make the selections.
Columnist Eric Reguly analyses the "real" reasons behind the CBC decision to partner with Sirius to bring satellite radio to Canada.
The hockey lockout continues to make the CBC and sports networks suffer.
FRIENDS criticizes low quantity of Canadian programming in two of the three proposed satellite pay radio applications currently before the CRTC.
The appointment of CBC's president should be a decision by its board of directors, not a personal political decision by the Prime Minister, columnist says.
Satellite radio will be the next big thing in Canada - the question is whether the CRTC wants to "get in front of the wave or get knocked over by it", says columnist.
This Hour has Seven Days' Patrick Watson says that his only regret is to have accepted the top job at the CBC because he should have known the bureaucratic structure which controlled the board of political appointees left no room for change.
CBC leads in number of nominations in this year's Gemini Awards.
Transcript of question from MP Maka Kotto to Minister of Canadian Heritage regarding procedure for appointment of CBC president.
The National Post's editorial board accuses the CBC of taking sides in the U.S. election.
Conditions placed on CRTC approval of Al-Jazeera will result in Canada joining the ranks of Syria and Saudi Arabia, where the channel is not shown.
The appointment of the current CBC president, Robert Rabinovitch, will reportedly be extended.
FRIENDS says the CBC should replace Hockey Night in Canada with Canadian junior league hockey instead of Hollywood films.
Report says Francis Fox turned down the CBC presidency.
FRIENDS responds to letter from CBC executive, says CBC underestimating audience demand for live hockey.
Sheila Copps' new tell-all book accuses Prime Minister Martin of suggesting that the CBC be privatized.
Friends of Canadian Broadcasting says CBC should be replacing Saturday night hockey with junior hockey rather than American blockbusters.
Francis Fox reportedly refuses top job at CBC amid rumours that Robert Rabinovitch's term may be extended.
CBC defends decision to air foreign film programming instead of Canadian hockey on Hockey Night in Canada despite effect of tripling foreign content during prime time.
Text of e-mail response from Conservative Party MPs to FRIENDS supporters who recently e-mailed the Prime Minister, copying their MP to advocate reform in CBC appointments.
French CBC accused of reneging on cultural mandate to improve ratings.
FRIENDS says CBC decision to air foreign movies during the NHL lockout regrettable, will reduce Canadian content to 1980s levels.
FRIENDS calls on CBC President to air Canadian hockey, not Hollywood blockbusters, on Hockey Night in Canada during NHL dispute.
New York Times reports on impact of losses in advertising revenue due to hockey lockout.
A talk given by former BBC Director General Greg Dyke in Seoul, Korea sparked a wave of criticism targeted at the state-run Korean broadcaster, decrying its closeness to the current government.
Minister of Canadian Heritage responds to question regarding parliamentary review of government appointments process, promises "transparent process" and "best people" will be used to fill forthcoming vacancies on CRTC.
UK newspaper reports on CBC's efforts to ensure programming reflects Canada's multicultural fabric.
The shortage of high quality English language Canadian drama is a critical issue which needs to be addressed by placing the blame where it belongs: not only on the private broadcasters but also on the CRTC and its 1999 Television Policy.
Former BBC director-general Greg Dyke calls for the abolition of the board of governors.
Howard Stern may find his way into Canada through a partnership between CBC and U.S. satellite broadcaster Sirius Radio.
CBC's Opening Night and The Newsroom as well as CTV's Corner Gas are nominated for International Emmy Awards.
CBC claims proposed satellite radio service could choose to exclude Howard Stern from signals imported into Canada; critics fear it will be unable to resist demand.
UK communications regulator Ofcom pushes for a second and smaller version of the BBC designed to maintain the quality of public braodcasting by competing with the BBC.
Rumours that Paul Martin's former principal secretary is being considered for appointment to the presidency of the CBC make it unclear the Prime Minister is committed to reforming the process of patronage political appointments.
Famed 1960s CBC public affairs program was highly popular and distinctively Canadian, but ultimately cancelled because of its politically controversial style.
RDI head Martin Cloutier tenders his resignation and Paul Martin "tests out" the approval rating of Francis Fox as would-be CBC president.
National Post journalist criticizes CBC for drawing attention to paper's decision to change original wording of a Reuters story.
CBC decision to air debate between owners and players shows how much more popular hockey and NHL are in Canada, and how important televised hockey is to the CBC's bottom line.
Groups say it is time that top positions at the CBC were filled transparently and at arm's length from government.
Compilation of comments from former Parliamentary Committees, Commissions and Prime Minister Paul Martin, showing that all agree patronage should be removed from the CBC appointments process.
FRIENDS cites report showing appointments to CBC Board and presidency have often been made based on political affiliation rather than merit, calls for reform of appointments process.
FRIENDS calls for change in the way the government selects the CBC president and Board of Directors.
Article says a new Friends of Canadian Broadcasting report has provided evidence of patronage in CBC board appointments, but this is just one of many problems with the federal government's appointments process.
FRIENDS releases new research suggesting the vast majority of CBC appointees have been affiliated with the governing political party, urges Prime Minister Paul Martin to end political patronage appointments to CBC.
NHL lockout sees CBC replacing season games with Hollywood blockbuster films.
Paul Martin's former principal secretary tops the list of candidates for the CBC presidency.
Article says Francis Fox is at the top of the list of candidates for the CBC presidency.
If no agreement to resolve the NHL lockout is reached before January, networks like the CBC will lose a significant source of revenue and may be forced to cancel other programming.
ACTRA disappointed that CBC, Global and CTV plan Canadian mini-series, films of the week and reality shows this fall, but are not investing in continuing Canadian drama series.
Greg Dyke memoir argues the government perceived the BBC as a political enemy, and treated it accordingly, because of the public broadcaster's Iraq war coverage.
Article says CBC journalists have an argument for exemption from Access to Information Act, but CBC as a corporation does not.
CTV Newsnet asks CRTC for licence amendments to remove restrictions that would allow it to compete more directly with CBC Newsworld.
Growth in HDTV technology is mirrored by demand for made-in-Canada HDTV programming.
The CBC says its journalistic integrity would be compromised should it be included under the Access to Information Act.
CTV Newsnet seeks an amendment to its licence that would allow it to compete more directly with other English-language news services such as CBC Newsworld.
The first written response FRIENDS has seen to any of hundreds of persons who have shared their letters to Stephen Harper with us since April 2004, including our own letters of May 19, June 11 and June 14.
The CBC Olympic coverage has benefited from the public broadcaster’s decision to cast athletes as commentators.
The CBC argues that being included in the access-to-information law would compromise its ability to report the news because it would, amongst other things, threaten the sources of investigative journalists.
CBC commended for coverage of Olympic events on an action-packed day and its decision to postpone commercials.
Editorial says an increasing number of American viewers are turning to "grey market" satellite to watch superior Olympics coverage on CBC.
U.S.-based columnist says foreigners like CBC coverage of the Olympic games because Canada's relatively modest performance allows it to provide more universal coverage.
CBC says Olympic viewership numbers match projections.
Former Lincoln Committee chair appointed to panel studying broadcasting content in languages other than English or French in the Canadian broadcasting system.
Broadcasting space is no longer a scarce resource, and the CRTC is therefore obsolete, columnist says.
CBC is the standard-bearer for Olympic coverage, overshadows U.S. networks.
CRTC rulings, CBC display "left wing biases", opinion editorial says.
As Richard Stursberg leaves Telefilm Canada before the expiration of his mandate, many wonder about the decisions and challenges the organization now faces.
Columnist suggests that CBC's executive director of network programming, Slawko Klymkiw, replace Richard Stursberg at Telefilm Canada.
The Canadian broadcast industry appears thrilled by the appointement of Liza Frulla as Minister of Canadian Heritage.
Columnist argues that the Broadcasting Act and CRTC are out of date and should be scrapped.
B.C. Premier confirms province is still considering "new delivery models" for the province's public educational broadcaster, Knowledge Network; a March 2004 FRIENDS poll showed 69% of British Columbians oppose its privatization.
CBC explains position on participating in Amber Alert program.
National Post editorial argues against CBC policy on Alberta's Amber Alert program.
New Vice-President of CBC English Television, Richard Stursberg, denies he personally penned a report suggesting that the CBC be made into three specialty channels, among other proposals.
The appointment of Richard Stursberg to CBC's top job is receiving mixed reviews.
Richard Stursberg is appointed Vice-President of English Television at CBC/Radio-Canada.
Richard Stursberg is appointed Executive Vice President in charge of English Television at CBC/Radio Canada despite having once suggested that the English TV network be eliminated.
Many are puzzled by the CBC's deal with the Canadian Curling Association; meanwhile, both maintain that everyone will benefit from the deal.
Richard Stursberg has been named executive vice-president of English language television for CBC/Radio-Canada.
Many shocked and some dismayed as Robert Rabinovitch names Richard Stursberg executive vice-president of English television for CBC/Radio-Canada.
The Canadian Curling Association believes it can reach more households with the CBC then any other network, but deal draws criticism from some quarters.
CBC announces appointment of Richard Stursberg to the top job at CBC English Television.
Brand study reports that CBC brand draws polarized reactions.
CRTC decisions on Quebec radio station, Al-Jazeera are those it was required to make under the Broadcasting Act.
CBC Radio One's Metro Morning the highest rated morning show in Toronto.
Parliament votes out four-member RAI board of governors, but the vote may not effectively reduce Italian Prime Minister's control over the broadcaster.
Ontario premier says TVO will not be sold "in order to pay for the ongoing operation of the government," but does not dismiss the possibility of changes "to make sure we're truly focused on the priorities of Ontarians."
Columnist speculates on possible choices for the position of CBC executive vice-president and head of English-language television.
Columnist speculates CBC President will not be reappointed.
TVO should be cut off from tax support and turned into a not-for-profit entity like America's PBS, editorial says.
BBC aims to reduce overheads as it prepares to seek renewal of its royal charter.
Canada's TV broadcast industry posted record high revenues in 2003, StatsCan says.
Official Languages Commissioner's examination of the CBC is an assault on the broadcaster's journalistic independence, editorial says.
The new federal minority government may provide a welcoming space for culture groups to articulate their concerns.
Millions of Canadians tuned in to CTV, CBC and Global's marathon election-night coverage. The largest number watched CBC.
Selection of statements by Conservative candidates in response to inquiries from FRIENDS supporters about the Conservative Party position on CBC.
Conservative candidate promises to fight for CBC; other parties' candidates say he will have a hard time doing so in Ottawa.
An all-candidates meeting in a Guelph shows CBC an important election issue for seniors.
Twenty Canadian media unions and associations have formed The Canadian Film & Television Industry Council to address cultural issues.
Leaked policy revealing the Conservatives' plan to restructure the CRTC and relax foreign ownership restrictions has pushed Canadian culture onto the election agenda.
The CBC is a vital expression of Canadian nationhood, letter-writer says.
The tax cuts proposed in the Conservative platform total $37 billion, which will come from cuts to programs like the CBC, columnist says.
A women's committee in Radio-Canada's union seeks to close salary gaps between men and women at the broadcaster.
Actors' gathering at CBC headquarters urges public to ask why cultural issues are being ignored in the election campaign.
Canadian people, not just television and film industry spokespeople, should be concerned about Conservative cultural and broadcasting policies.
Speakers at the Banff Television Festival call for political parties to disclose their cultural platforms.
Arts groups and Liberals criticize Tory arts policies; Conservatives and some commentators say there's nothing to worry about.
At Banff Television Festival, Minister of Canadian Heritage denounces Conservative cultural policies, while Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union asks the Liberals to come clean about their own.
Scherrer denounces Conservative cultural policies in her speech at the Banff Television Festival.
With the federal election just two weeks away, political concerns overshadow traditional workshop topics at Banff Television Festival.
Well-known Canadians join FRIENDS in expressing concern over policies proposed in Conservative party briefing note to candidates.
Well-known Canadians join FRIENDS in urging Conservative leader to reconsider broadcasting policies contained in briefing note to Conservative candidates.
Liberal Heritage Minister to criticize Conservative cultural policies in speech at Banff Television Festival; dismissed by Conservatives as fear-mongering.
Minister of Canadian Heritage discusses Liberal Party position on culture and broadcasting.
Daryl Duke, who will be awarded the John Drainie Award at the 2004 Banff Television Festival, says Canadian broadcasting and Canadian identity are under threat. Duke is a member of the Steering Committee of FRIENDS of Canadian Broadcasting.
CPAC's unique and detailed election coverage is a valuable alternative to other networks', columnist says.
VoicePrint fundraiser to be held in Calgary this week.
PBS president Pat Mitchell is seeking a niche for the American public broadcaster amid political pressure, funding shortages and commercial competition.
Unveiling of fall schedules reveals different personalities of Canada's television networks.
StatsCan figures show that Canadian TV broadcasters' revenue growth was at a 15-year high in 2003.
A new Conservative policy handbook outlines the party's intent to loosen Canadian content reguations in the broadcasting sector.
CBC's broadcast of Stanley Cup final round draws record numbers of viewers.
Conservative leader's statements continue to suggest the Conservatives would eliminate subsidies for the CBC where it competes with private broadcasters.
Stanley Cup final broadcasts drew record-high ratings for CBC in Canada and record-low ratings in the States.
All television revenues grew in 2003, with private and specialty channels outpacing public and non-commercial broadcasting. Digital channels are also enjoying some success.
Conservative candidate calls for funding halt to "Communist Broadcasting Corporation", says national public broadcaster is a mouthpiece for the federal Liberal party and drives audiences away from private broadcasters.
Stable, multi-year funding for the CBC, as recommended by the all-party report of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage, has not been guaranteed in the platforms of either the Conservatives or the Liberals.
French-language Habs games will no longer be available on network television now that La Soirée du hockey has been pulled from Radio-Canada.
Management says Radio-Canada will not cover the federal election in the event of a strike by its employees.
Response to a letter from the President of the Canadian Media Guild purporting to correct FRIENDS' factual statement that CMG, which is now CBC's largest union, is in fact the Canadian local of an American union, the Communications Workers of America.
FRIENDS releases a guide to election advertising and other election-related media issues to federal election candidates across Canada.
CBC's chief programmer says attracting audiences to Canadian programming is difficult but is the CBC's job.
CBC programming president Klymkiw says fall lineup is aimed at cutting through clutter of viewing choices and presenting programs that will be talked about.
CBC says by not airing simulcast American shows in prime time it must be smarter in its programming in order to attract audiences.
CBC faces the challenge of luring viewers away from popular and expensive American shows on other Canadian networks, without the benefit of including such shows in its schedule.
FRIENDS releases two new polls on state of public broadcasting, informs Senate committee and Dalton McGuinty of the results.
Pre-election polling commissioned by FRIENDS shows strong voter support for Canadian culture, Canadian content, and an independent and well-funded CBC. Voters also strongly support maintaining domestic control of Canadian communications/broadcasting companies and limiting media concentration. Includes links to opinion poll results, press releases, media coverage, and other documents.
Campaign performance rather than polls are likely to decide the outcome of the 2004 federal election.
Canada's national TV networks unveil a lineup of reality shows; supporters say it will satisfy Canadians' tastes, while critics say it will hurt Canadian drama.
CBC's early history shows that many of the reasons for the public broadcaster's creation still exist today.
On the eve of a federal election, a major union is calling on Canada's political parties to come clean with their policies on foreign ownership, media concentration, and the CBC.
CBC Newsworld interviews Leonard and David Asper, giving them a platform they would be unlikely to give their detractors.
Conservative party leader echoes Asper family call for commercialization of parts of CBC that "compete" with private broadcasters.
FRIENDS surprised and concerned after Conservative party leader muses that CBC English TV and CBC Radio Two be commercialized.
FRIENDS calls on Conservative Party leader Stephen Harper to clarify comments on public funding of CBC.
Pre-election poll commissioned by FRIENDS shows strong support among voters for strengthening Canadian culture and enhancing the CBC. This summary shows a breakdown of results by political party.
Ipsos-Reid pre-election poll commissioned by FRIENDS shows Canadian voters support strengthening Canadian content, culture and identity as a means to balance closer integration with the United States.
FRIENDS' pre-election poll shows strong support for safeguarding Canadian content, culture and identity to balance closer economic integration with the United States.
CPAC's Ken Rockburn interviews Ian Morrison on the results of FRIENDS' pre-election polling on the CBC, foreign ownership of communications, and media concentration.
FRIENDS survey reveals voter attitudes to Canadian culture on the eve of a federal election.
Finance Minister Greg Sorbara says Liberals won't sell assets such as TVO to pay for government spending.
Conservative Party leader Stephen Harper suggests his party may revisit government funding of CBC English television and Radio Two.
Nine out of 10 respondents to FRIENDS survey agreed that strengthening Canadian culture and identity is important as Canada-U.S. economic ties increase.
Radio-Canada and union face pressure to avoid strike/lockout during federal election.
Radio-Canada union seeks strike vote to address, among other issues, parity in job security with CBC workers in English Canada.
CBC demonstrates anti-Israel and anti-US biases that are a disservice to taxpayers, editorial says.
Fears of privatization at TVOntario are resulting in programming paranoia, and a narrow interpretation of broadcaster's educational mandate.
FRIENDS calls on Government of Ontario to respect views of 76% of Ontarians, not sell TVOntario to a private broadcaster.
Ipsos-Reid poll commissioned by FRIENDS shows a strong majority of Ontarians say that they want TVOntario to remain in public hands.
A strong majority of Ontario residents want TVO to remain in public hands, according to a new opinion survey commissioned by FRIENDS.
Friends poll shows Canadians want a stronger CBC, less media concentration and a Canadian-owned broadcasting system.
FRIENDS tells Senate committee that CBC still has widespread support.
Ipsos-Reid poll commissioned by FRIENDS on the eve of a federal election shows Canadian voters favour maintaining foreign ownership rules, limiting media concentration, and strengthening CBC.
FRIENDS urges Senate Committee to support the 2003 recommendations of the House of Commons Heritage Committee, releases polling data evidencing popular support.
FRIENDS presents results of pre-election media issues poll to Senate Committee.
FRIENDS to release pre-election poll on media issues Thursday, May 13, 10:45 a.m.
Al Gore may be able to make Newsworld International successful by emphasizing its differences from conventional American TV.
Canadian broadcasters unveil an unprecedented amount of reality shows for next season.
There are many reasons why the CBC is having trouble finding a new head of English TV.
CBC Radio 3 focuses on non-traditional CBC audience.
CBC will continue to program Newsworld International following its acquisition by former U.S. Vice-President Al Gore and his business partners.
Former U.S. vice-president Al Gore has acquired Newsworld International for an undisclosed sum.
The chairwoman of the Italian public broadcaster Rai has resigned to protest what she sees as political control by prime minister Silvio Berlusconi.
Al Gore is among the new owners of the oft-traded CBC Newsworld International.
CBC probably won’t be airing HDTV sports until next year.
National Post columnist says whistleblower legislation controversy shows that CBC cannot be both journalistically independent from and financially dependent on government.
CBC staff must be exempt from whistleblower legislation to preserve their journalistic independence.
Columnist argues CBC's treatment of Don Cherry makes it a "left-leaning laughingstock", should forego public subsidy if it fires the controversial sportscaster.
Don Cherry may leave the CBC and Coach’s Corner due to conflict with station officials and concerns about political correctness.
A new survey shows Canadians increasingly prefer programming on specialty channels to that of conventional broadcasters.
CBC believes whistleblower legislation will undermine integrity of its journalists; critics say broadcaster is trying to avoid accountability measures.
Canadian arts personalities’ 1956 suggestions for improving the CBC bear striking similarity to today’s recommendations.
Report by British communications regulator says BBC should stick to "core" public service broadcasting function.
Audience for aboriginal programming almost doubles between 1999 and 2003.
Budget reductions to Quebec educational broadcaster Télé-Québec critized by government opposition.
Funding cuts to Télé-Québec almost as harmful as privatisation.
Internal policy document leaked to media shows Conservative Party would relax or remove communications sector foreign ownership restrictions (p. 11), downsize and limit the role of the CRTC (p. 13) and remove protection for Canadian programming in the satellite distribution market (p. 14).
Senate report reveals news accounts for 54 per cent of expenditures on Canadian programming by conventional broadcasters.
National Post covers Senate interim report on media concentration by focusing on low CBC audience share.
Senate report shows CBC market share has declined since 1997.
Juno Awards run opposite "brilliant" CBC drama.
Ipsos-Reid poll shows more than twice as many British Columbians oppose than favour the provincial government's proposed sale of Knowledge Network to private broadcasters.
FRIENDS survey of British Columbians says most oppose the sale of the provincial public educational broadcaster, Knowledge Network.
FRIENDS poll shows majority of British Columbians support maintaining public ownership of Knowledge Network.
In a survey, 69 percent of B.C. residents opposed selling the educational broadcaster Knowledge Network to a private company.
B.C. plan to seek private sector "operating partner" for public educational television network opposed by majority of British Columbians.
CBC unlikely to receive the attention it needs from a weakened Liberal government.
A U.S. investor group is reported to have agreed to buy the CBC specialty channel Newsworld International.
Liberal budget criticized for paying down debt at the expense of rebuilding Canada.
Internal BBC disciplinary inquiry prompted by Hutton report described as "kangaroo court" and "enormously frightening".
Commentary on continuing impact of CBC Radio's late night show, Brave New Waves.
Doyle offers commentary on nature of Canadian television industry, CBC radio.
U.S. network commissions pilot based on CBC Radio show.
National Post contributors argue CBC should be cut off entirely from public financial support.
FRIENDS notes that despite reforms, the president of CBC will still be appointed by the Prime Minister rather than the CBC Board.
A poll of Ontarians shows most do not support plans to privatize TVOntario.
FRIENDS says the Liberal government's changes to the Crown corporation appointments process leave the CBC President at the mercy of the Prime Minister.
Alternative federal budget discusses importance of public investment in CBC, Canadian broadcasting and Canadian culture (see pp. 33-34).
Communications professors who advised House of Commons Heritage Committee on Our Canadian Sovereignty report say there is no going back if foreign ownership limits are removed.
FRIENDS recalls Sheila Copps'
Radio Canada cancels morning show on its Toronto FM signal, la chaîne culturelle.
National Post columnist argues the CBC's refusal to air the Conservative leadership debate shows it is being mismanaged.
Major programming overhaul forecast at CBC once executive vice-president of English television Harold Redekopp retires.
Executive vice president of CBC-TV stepping down from what is arguably the most powerful position in Canadian television.
John Doyle comments on television repeats, originality and reality programming.
High quality educational television available to Ontarians has everything to do with public funding of TVO.
Columnist says in an era of choice, taxpayers should be given the choice not to fund CBC.
Columnist says CBC failed to act early and decisively to censure Cherry.
Both CBC and CTV this week unveiled ambitious plans, pending funding from the Canadian Television Fund, for a variety of new Canadian prime time drama series, sitcoms and movies of the week for the 2004-2005 season.
Letter to the Editor expresses shock at comments by Liberal MP Stan Keyes, says CBC and public broadcasting are vital.
NDP argues private broadcasters cannot replace CBC.
Paul Martin makes first public statement about CBC in response to remark by federal minister Stan Keyes that the public broadcaster is a "monster" and implying it should be sold.
National Revenue Minister and Liberal MP Stan Keyes proposes sale of CBC; Rabinovitch tenure as CBC president may not be renewed.
FRIENDS believes TVO would pose certain regulatory and financial problems for a private operator, notes that privatization has been proposed before.
Columnist criticizes taxpayer funding of CBC when provinces lack resources for health care.
CBC's choice not to run the first of two debates among the leadership candidates for the Conservative party is said to depict that the "state broadcaster" [sic] has become disconnected from the concerns of average Canadians.
While indigenous Canadian drama usually does not sell well abroad, performing-arts productions typically impress international audiences.
National Post contributor draws analogy between CBC funding and federal sponsorship scandal, suggests both have "defrauded the Canadian people".
Writer says the longer-term interests of British public life require an independent BBC even if it causes difficulty and offence to the UK government now.
The National Film Board is said to be enjoying success by following its original mandate of making important social issue documentaries.
New shows suggest Canadian drama is thriving; in reality, cuts to government funding of film and television production have created a deepening crisis.
Report by opposition party in the UK recommends breakup of BBC and severe cuts to public funding of all but BBC radio, certain public service programming and the channel which carries Parliamentary proceedings.
National Post editorial argues the CBC should be scaled down, receive only modest public funding and not air sports, sitcoms or mainstream dramas, so government can focus resources on "real priorities".
Tony Clement says federal spending should be slashed by billions of dollars, suggests looking at funding of CBC.
Columnist speculates that lacklustre sweeps period is unlikely to entice many viewers.
Writer believes the CBC is biased, deserves scrutiny similar to that given the BBC by the Hutton report.
Report on ratings for The National in Afghanistan.
Columnist praises CBC for investing in "sophisticated", "humorous", "biting" shows like The Newsroom.
Columnist notes irony that CBC flagship news program airs from Afghanistan in the same week as the Liberal sponsorship scandal breaks.
Viewers' apparent aversion to The Newsroom star is creating rating and scheduling problems for the CBC.
Victoria's CBC radio station will expand its programming in September to include a live afternoon show.
Ontario Liberals' Budget Town Hall document floats sale of publicly-funded TVOntario: "Currently, the government pays $54 million a year to operate TVOntario...Is this the best way to spend money to achieve results in education?"
Scherrer admits there is presently no Plan B to assist the production sector if money cut from the Canadian Television Fund is not restored.
A coalition including the CBC, ACTRA, the CFTPA and the CAB is asking Finance Minister Ralph Goodale to restore Ottawa's support of the Canadian Television Fund.
CBC Newsworld will change its fall prime-time current affairs lineup; a similar review is reportedly underway at CBC.
Writer argues that Hutton report exposed the BBC's fatal flaws, confirmed that the BBC has "lost its way".
Cable sports channels and private broadcasters benefit from government protection as surely as CBC does.
Financial Post Editor says Canadian broadcasting regulation stifles provocative debate on television.
Columnist argues the CBC's reaction to Don Cherry episode illustrates a lack of understanding of popular culture.
Media access groups argue that new FCC broadcasting ownership rules may lead to a few large companies owning most of the major sources of news gathering and reporting in some markets.
Quebec Sports Minister Jean-Marc Fournier says CBC and Don Cherry are promoting both racist messages and the wrong values about sports.
Auditor General Sheila Fraser says the Canadian government is neglecting historic sites, buildings and documents.
CBC ready to censor Cherry if necessary by prematurely ending his segment.
CBC's reaction to Don Cherry is said to be questionable, considering his job is to start arguments.
Commentators say seven-second delay on Cherry may be unworkable and hurt quality of Hockey Night in Canada.
Documentary producer provides tongue-in-cheek commentary on Don Cherry controversy.
Critics call CBC decision to broadcast The National from Kabul, Afghanistan a ratings stunt.
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty says government may consider selling off TVOntario.
Don Cherry predicted to survive content scrutiny.
CBC should choose between firing Don Cherry and giving him free reign.
Critics are calling the CBC's implementation of a seven second tape-delay on Don Cherry's hockey commentary an attack on freedom of expression.
CBC responds to objectionable Don Cherry comments by committing to broadcast future editions of Coach's Corner on a seven-second tape delay.
Shifting of television schedules and time slots has become commonplace.
Columnist believes it is no longer sufficient for the CBC to say that it disagrees with Cherry's opinions: Cherry's contract should be terminated.
BBC scandal could undo the legacy of leadership until recently celebrated as a role model for private-sector media moguls.
Media freedoms, already set back by the Iraq war, will be further constrained in the wake of the Hutton Report on the BBC.
The BBC is right to be worried that the government may slash its budget and place it under private-sector regulation when its charter is up for renewal in 2006.
CRTC approves transitional digital television licenses for CBC and several private broadcasters.
The BBC must re-establish its reputation by reasserting itself as an independent and authoritative source of news.
The BBC can once again be a model for journalism, but it must return to the gold standard of telling the whole truth.
The CBC won 11 awards at an international broadcast media competition.
The UK government and the Hutton report have dealt a blow to both journalistic integrity and the BBC brand.
Well-known journalists have an obligation to act professionally when there's a camera on.
Journalism advocates were dismayed by Lord Hutton's report on the BBC, which they fear will have a chilling effect on the entire UK news media's ability to question the government.
When prime time television does focus on Canada, says John Doyle, much of it is devoted to reflecting our relationship with the United States.
BBC chair resigns after report of British House of Commons inquiry into death of scientist David Kelly exonerates government, criticizes BBC.
Daryl Duke, producer, director and member of FRIENDS' steering committee, comments on the lowering of standards in North American television and the importance of local programming.
Craig family may be seeking more money for Craig Media Inc. than the company is worth.
Columnist praises CBC for airing film classics no private broadcaster would have run.
New Heritage Minister, Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, believes mandate is to establish a vision for guarding the Canadian identity, not necessarily "know what books were published last week".
Columnist discusses how so many important issues and events are ignored while others are over-covered.
FRIENDS believes that support for CBC and strengthened cultural sovereignty are consistent with the Paul Martin government's stated goals.
British Columbia's public service educational broadcaster, Knowledge Network TV, could soon be running commercials if a private broadcasting "partner" is appointed to help manage the channel.
Text of newly-published ethics guide for public radio journalism.
National Public Radio ombudsman discusses the need for an ethics guide in public radio journalism.
Zerbisias says allowing Ontario Liberal Premier to sell off TVOntario to grapple with the provincial deficit would be a serious blow to public broadcasting.
Sheila Gervais, on leave from job as head of government relations at CBC, is seeking the Liberal nomination in the Ottawa South constituency.
The Canadian film and television community is looking for signs of a long-term commitment from government to encourage Canadian production.
CBC backs innovative radio program by novelist André Alexis.
VisionTV CEO argues CBC should share the public service broadcasting space with other public broadcasters.
CBC Radio 3 is challenging popular perceptions of the public broadcaster.
New Minister of Canadian Heritage indicates that she supports maintaining Canadian ownership of the communications sector.
Columnist says conflict between Sook-Yin Lee and the CBC is a classic example of the CBC wanting to appeal to a younger audience, but unwilling to alienate its aging core audience.
New Canadian Heritage Minister Helene Scherrer says she understands the importance of stable funding for arts organizations, but is committed to freezing current budgets.
Nielsen ratings for CBC Television's Monday night line-up of new shows exceeded expectations.
CBC says freedom of expression not the reason for reluctance to approve radio host's leave to star in controversial film.
Helene Scherrer's early meeting with five Ontario arts organizations gives hope she will address the problems facing the arts community.
National Post contributor calls for privatized CBC after comic embarrasses Conservative Party leadership candidate Stephen Harper.
Moses Znaimer may succeed Isabel Bassett as CEO of TVOntario.
CBC Vice-President of French radio reflects on the essential cultural contribution of public radio.
The French CBC, which defines itself as the cultural channel, is once again analyzing its role in the broadcasting system.
CBC unveiled three new Canadian shows in one night: Rick Mercer's Monday Report, The Newsroom and This is Wonderland.
Star of new CBC series This is Wonderland is the kind of talent that justifies a Canadian star system.
Technological advantages aside, FRIENDS says high definition television is primarily a vehicle for delivering higher income viewers to advertisers.
CanWest complains of media censorship, demands Senate inquiry after organizers refuse National Post access to Conan O'Brien during his visit to Toronto.
Provincial Liberal government will reportedly replace Isabel Bassett as CEO of TVOntario, though she would continue to serve as part-time chair.
Summary of expenditures that resulted in 10-year high in culture spending by government in fiscal 2001-2002.
Government spending on culture increased at its fastest rate in a decade in 2001/02, as the federal government pumped a record amount into cultural activities. Combined, all three levels of government spent a total of $6.8 billion on everything from libraries to the performing arts.
The head of the BBC fears a report on its war coverage and the death of British Scientist David Kelly will be used as an assault on its funding mechanism, self-regulation and corporate governance.
CBC-TV apologizes after over-airing a series of in-house promos for upcoming CBC shows.
Ten-year-old TVO current affairs program Studio 2 has survived despite initial antipathy from private broadcasters and government ministers.
Head of Canadian Media Guild, affiliated with the Communications Workers of America, downplays the affiliation and says Guild membership will be "very good" for CBC.
CRTC says spending on Canadian news and information programming increased 36% between 1998 and 2002, while the figure for drama and comedy programming was only 11%.
National Post advertises new magazine, the Western Standard, as an "antidote" to "mushy, left-wing, politically correct media" such as the CBC.
Lukewarm coverage of Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage report, Our Cultural Sovereignty, is argued to reflect the censorship by omission that can result from media concentration.
CBC's internal study overwhelmingly endorsed CBC news and The National.
