Editorial claims that in recent years the U.S. Federal Communication Commission has been working on behalf of media companies instead of citizens, leading to unprecedented concentration of media ownership.
Article says that unprecedented assertiveness shown by the Conservative government in pushing its vision for the telecom sector may make it difficult to fill the CRTC chair position.
FRIENDS says that Bev Oda has done little of significance since becoming Heritage Minister because the Prime Minister's Office is calling the shots.
Cartt.ca interview in which MP Charlie Angus talks about the Heritage Committee, the CBC mandate review, carriage fees and copyright legislation.
Editorial says the CRTC has acted appropriately by declining to regulate the Internet.
The CRTC has raised the minimum level for Canadian jazz and blues airplay from 10% to 25% of the broadcast week, while the quota for Canadian concert music will double from 10% to 20%.
The European Union Competition Commissioner has forced the German authorities to end illegal government aid to public broadcasters.
FRIENDS says the CRTC must ensure a proposed high definition television network will follow Canadian content rules.
A CRTC decision on private radio states that CanCon quotas will stay the same for mainstream stations, but the industry must contribute more money to developing Canadian artists.
CRTC report says private radio stations won't have to increase the level of Canadian content they play, but the amount of money the industry pays to support domestic artists will increase.
Article says the process to replace Charles Dalfen as chairman of the CRTC has stalled because Prime Minister Harper wants the final say on the choice.
The media company is distancing itself from its former controlling shareholder Bell Canada Enterprises, despite successfully arguing a few months ago there had been no ownership change of the company.
HDTV Networks has submitted an application to the CRTC for a national over-the-air broadcast licence to deliver programming dedicated to the high-definition format.
A report, commissioned by Heritage Minister Bev Oda, says the government should look at rewriting parts of the Broadcasting Act, preferably by the end of the decade.
CRTC report concludes digital video and audio content available online is having little impact on the Canadian broadcasting system thus far.
The CRTC says it will establish a new approach to Canadian content development financed by the contributions of broadcasters, but will not increase Canadian content requirements.
CRTC report finds that any negative impact on the broadcasting system from shifting media consumption patterns has been minimal to date, but the regulator will continue to monitor developments to inform public policy decisions.
Former broadcast executive says an expert administrative tribunal is the most effective and sensible means by which government policy objectives, such as cultural sovereignty, can be advanced.
Government officials say Industry Minister Maxime Bernier's telecom agenda includes reforming the CRTC, playing a role in the selection of a new CRTC chair and possibly making changes to foreign ownership restrictions.
Article says wireless Internet radio has the potential to disrupt both the satellite and terrestrial radio industries.
Considering changes in the telecommunications industry and recent government decisions, columnist concludes the CRTC is in its last days.
Lobby group envisions Kamloops as a pilot city for the delivery of digital/high-definition TV.
The Netherlands has ended transmission of "free to air" analog television, becoming the first nation to switch completely to digital signals.
Columnist says that federal Industry Minister Maxime Bernier has seized the local telephone file from the CRTC, unilaterally opening markets across Canada to unfettered competition.
Industry Minister Maxime Bernier has announced amendments to the Competition Act that would issue fines of up to $15-million against telecom companies if they abuse a position of market power.
Advertisers tell the CRTC that relaxing limits on the amount of advertising during television shows would be detrimental to advertisers and viewers.
Analysis shows there are many small communities with relatively high reliance on over-the-air television.
Columnist says that recent comments made by CRTC Commissioner Richard French, who could be the next chair of the regulator, suggests he is a skeptic of Canadian-content regulation.
A recount and commentary on the final day of the CRTC public hearings on over-the-air television policy, including the presentation made by FRIENDS.
FRIENDS encourages the CRTC to grant carriage fees to over-the-air broadcasters in return for commitments to local and drama programming and to reinstate a policy of requiring a percentage of revenue to be spent on the production of Canadian programming.
Robust national radio revenue growth of 8.2% in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 contrasts with a cry to regulators earlier this year to ease rules if the industry is to survive and prosper.
CBC president Robert Rabinovitch has suggested to the CRTC a hybrid approach to delivery of digital television that relies on a mix of terrestrial broadcast and satellite, cable and IPTV delivery.
Article comments that there has been little news coverage from the CRTC over-the-air television hearings of opinions that differ from those of the large broadcasters.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union tells the CRTC that local programming - the "foundation" of the broadcasting system - has all but disappeared from the airwaves.
Gemini Award winner says that by loosening the definition of priority programming in 1999, the CRTC ended the glory days of quality Canadian TV.
The Canadian Media Guild wants the CRTC to impose new fees on cable and satellite customers to help finance new domestic programming.
Heritage Minister Bev Oda downplays recommendations in a Senate committee's report on media concentration.
Canadian Media Research Inc. comments filed with the CRTC regarding the CBC's proposal to close down its over the air television transmitters.
Ted Rogers, chief executive of Rogers Communications, tells the CRTC it is not its job to boost the profit margins of private-sector broadcasters.
The chief executive officer of Shaw Communications says if some Canadian broadcasters can't make a profit under the current regulatory regime, he'd like to buy them so he can.
CRTC's vice-chair expressed displeasure with Shaw Communications over ad campaign urging public comment on carriage fees.
FRIENDS says specifics of new CBC plan for local news raise serious questions, and predicts the plan may not survive the appointment of a new CBC president.
The Canadian Media Guild is citing Kamloops as CBC's test case for possible withdrawal from rural over-the-air service across the country.
Pierre Karl Péladeau, chief executive officer of Quebecor says the CRTC should deregulate key parts of the television business, lifting restrictions on everything from commercial time to how networks spend money.
CTV and Quebecor want the limit of 12 commercial minutes per hour lifted, while Corus and the CBC oppose the idea.
Op-ed makes the case that cultural needs of future generations won't be well served if the CRTC sides with television broadcasters who want fewer regulations.
CanWest Global Communications tells the CRTC that private broadcasters should not be subject to new regulatory requirements - such as an increase to the amount of Canadian content aired in prime time.
John Cassaday, CEO of Corus Entertainment tells the CRTC that fees for television networks would likely anger audiences.
Columnist says Leonard Asper is looking for a quick fix to stock market troubles and dwindling TV profits by asking the CRTC for carriage fees.
Government and industry sources speculate that the race to succeed Charles Dalfen as the next CRTC chairman is a showdown between Fernand Bélisle, a former CRTC vice-chairman of broadcasting, and George Addy, a former Telus Corp. executive and head of the federal competition watchdog.
Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission hearings on over-the-air television will discuss several contentious issues such as carriage fees for conventional broadcasters and funding for Canadian drama.
Global, CTV, CHUM, and the CBC want subscription fees paid by cable and satellite TV distributors and flexibility to get around a 12-minute-per-hour cap on advertising.
The CRTC is set to consider forcing domestic cable and satellite TV distributors to pay a first-time fee to conventional broadcasters for carrying their local channels.
Richard Stursberg, executive vice-president of English television, says CBC's ability to maintain its cultural responsibilities is being compromised by declining revenue from advertising and government.
The federal telecom regulator will no longer require large telephone companies to seek its approval to change prices - provided those prices remain within approved ranges.
Two University of Calgary professors say the cost required to switch to HDTV will be too much for smaller Canadian broadcasters leaving, almost exclusively, American programming using the technology.
According a survey commissioned by telecommunication companies, 20% of cable and satellite subscribers would cancel their service if they had to pay more for the channels they already get.
Television broadcasters are expected to ask for carriage fees for their TV channels from cable and satellite operators at the upcoming CRTC hearings.
Leonard Asper talks about the over-the-air TV review and the future of his company.
Bev Oda speaks publicly about media convergence, the digital age, Canadian content, the future role of the CRTC and the fate of the CBC.
Columnist says that selling public airwaves currently used for over-the-air television could cut cellphone costs and drive the wireless economy.
The Conservative cabinet has partially overturned a CRTC decision on voice over Internet protocol regulation.
Arabic TV broadcaster's new network is launched, but won't be on Canadian cable.
The Harper government plans to take the highly unusual move to rewrite the CRTC's key ruling on Internet-based telephone services.
Columnist says that Heritage Minister Bev Oda's past campaign support from broadcasters, cable companies, record companies and copyright lobby groups could raise questions about the fairness and impartiality of upcoming policy processes.
The Canadian Film & Television Production Association calls on the CRTC to reverse the trend towards foreign programming and to impose Cancon spending requirements for television broadcasters.
TSN's additional digital channel will assist TSN and CTV, both owned by Bell Globemedia, in their expected bid for National Hockey League rights.
In North America there are now more than 700 digital out-of-home networks - all of them unregulated - feeding flat screen TV's in the local Royal Bank or Wal-Mart with advertisers' messages.
Authors of the 1986 Report of the Task Force on Broadcasting Policy say that a significant role for the state is needed to ensure Canada's media system serves the common good and democracy.
Op-ed suggests there are indications that the Harper government is preparing to act on media policy.
The CRTC has ruled that satellite television providers won't be able to carry satellite radio without applying for changes to their licences.
The Canadian Association of Broadcasters wants the government to rewrite its rulebook and give regulated broadcasters a chance to compete with unregulated digital media.
With video and music downloads using more bandwidth, one cable company is pushing for content providers like movie studios to share the cost of expanding networks.
CRTC chairman Charles Dalfen's reign was marked largely by the challenge of trying to maintain national borders in the Internet era.
The Canadian Film and Television Production Association want domestic broadcasters to increase license fees for commissioned Canadian TV series and to share rights for emerging digital content.
A parliamentary committee wants the federal government to hold off on any overhaul of telecommunications governance until a report is completed in the spring of 2007.
Just when CRTC-watchers were expecting the announcement of Tory pedigree Fernand Belisle as the CRTC Chair, the Prime Minister's Office has extended the search for candidates.
Frequency interference has prompted NPR to ask the U.S. communications regulator to recall millions of FM modulators that play satellite radios and iPods through car stereos.
The Communications Workers of America are encouraging the U.S. federal regulator to retain diversity in local TV, radio and newspaper ownership.
An internal Industry Canada memo says the government and the CRTC aren't giving enough information to telephone and Internet users on how to protect and inform themselves.
Study says relaxing rules on cross-media mergers would increase media concentration in excess of Federal Trade Commission guidelines.
Telcos and cablecos pressure the federal government, and by extension, the CRTC for a telecommunication regulation revolution.
Telus boss says strict regulatory rules discourage innovation and that Canada's copyright, broadcasting and telecommunications laws should reflect the Internet age.
CanWest's television holdings in Australia increase in value after Australian Parliament passed a law to abolish a 19-year-old ban on foreign and cross-media ownership.
Government declines to challenge CRTC decision allowing telcos to use over-billings to expand high-speed Internet services in rural and remote communities.
CanWest Global Communications, CHUM, CTV and CBC want to charge cable companies a fee for carrying their signals.
Industry Minister Maxime Bernier is seeking provincial support for his open market view of how Internet-based phone services should be regulated.
Legislation passed by Congress means that by 2009 all U.S. over-the-air TV stations must switch from analog to digital transmission.
Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers says the Canadian broadcast industry needs a broader policy that covers technologies such as the Internet and mobile networks.
The Federal Communications Commission begins deliberations into loosening ownership restrictions on the broadcast industry.
Canadian independent broadcasters express concern about the introduction of subscription fees for the over-the-air broadcasters, warning any reduction in fees paid to them will have drastic implications.
The Writers Guild of Canada wants CTV, Global and CHUM to increase the percentage of advertising revenues they spend on Canadian drama from 3.2 to 7 per cent.
CBC/Radio-Canada proposes that the CRTC establish conventional broadcaster eligibility for cable and satellite subscription revenues.
Comment piece says that the CRTC should act on the government's instructions or else legislators should "seize the agenda" from the regulator.
Rogers wants restrictions that allow a maximum of 12-min of advertising per hour of television programming relaxed.
Fees from cable, satellite and telecom companies are needed for conventional TV to thrive, says CHUM's chief executive.
TV broadcasters want to charge cable companies for carrying their signals while cable supplier Rogers plan to fight the proposal.
Friends makes recommendations on advertising regulations, subscriber fees, public broadcasting funding, out-of-market tuning, time shifting, Canadian programming, local programming, the benefits policy and HD issues.
Consumer groups to appeal decision that would allow Telco's to use $652.7-million in over-billings for specific projects, such as new high-speed Internet services in rural and remote communities.
A Toronto lawyer, a former CBC president, a CRTC vice-chairman and two consultants rumored to chair the CRTC.
Michael Sabia calls on the CRTC "to get the message" the federal Conservative government is sending on telecom regulation.
A study that suggested greater concentration of media ownership would hurt local TV news coverage was destroyed by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission.
Editorial says the CRTC should let the laissez-faire rules that have made cellphone plans affordable should prevail in VoIP.
Canada's telecom regulator says its 25% deregulation benchmark for the local telephone market turns out to be too high.
The decision by the CRTC to ignore the government's wishes on Internet phone service could lead to the Conservatives pulling the plug on many of the powers held by agency.
CRTC's statement of consumer rights for home phone service contains a major caveat: the rights don't apply to cell phones or service offered by a competitive provider.
FRIENDS reccomends that public policy should ensure that all entities which benefit from access to Canadian viewers and listeners make appropriate contributions to support Canadian content, especially drama on television.
Report, commissioned by the CRTC, to detail broadcast digital transition regulations, policies, and experiences in the United States, Mexico, Australia, United Kingdom, France, and Germany.
CFTPA recommends a more equitable production financing model that provides for adequate financing of Canadian programming.
Rogers filed comments with the CRTC recommending consumer choice, investment in new technologies and the ability to compete on a fair and flexible basis.
Two Saskatoon radio companies have proposed a new station staffed entirely by aboriginal people to get around CRTC rules that allow a company to own three radio stations in the market.
The CRTC will continue to regulate the prices large phone companies can charge for Internet-based calls.
FRIENDS predicts funding for Canadian programming will erode without a level playing field that ensures all those who deliver programming play by the same rules.
The cable subsidiary of Quebecor Inc., is seeking permission from the CRTC to carry XM and Sirius satellite radio services to digital TV viewers.
The CRTC says the bill of rights will make it clearer to consumers what their rights are when it comes to phone service.
A Federal Communications Commission decision has cleared XM Satellite Radio to resume production of devices that did not meet broadcast emission standards.
Canada's telecommunications regulator has rejected a bid by an Ottawa lawyer to block access to two U.S.-based hate websites.
The CRTC has been asked to take the unprecedented step of blocking access to U.S.-based hate websites from Canada.
An ownership shuffle at Bell Globemedia, which would give Torstar Corp. a 20-per-cent stake, has received a green light from federal Competition Bureau.
CRTC allows CanCon to drop from 65% to 35% on Alliance Atlantis's Discovery Health channel.
In Mumbai, police raids on cable TV operators block movies deemed inappropriate for children.
The proposed takeover of CHUM Ltd. by Bell Globemedia has overshadowed the fact that CHUM has cut 281 jobs and hours of local programming.
Eight companies have filed applications with the CRTC for new broadcast licences in Saskatoon.
Andrew Coyne, National Affairs Columnist with The National Post, to speak in Fraser Institute series on the future of the CRTC.
The proposed policy directive from the Conservative government ignores the Telecom Policy Review Panel's recommendations for "significant market power" in the telecommunications industry.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada has filed a complaint with federal regulators saying CHUM's stations in Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver have breached their licences by cutting back local programming.
After received 10 applications for FM radio stations in Quebec City, The CRTC has turned down all but one.
A decision to award Allarco Entertainment a broadcasting licence to operate a new national English-language general-interest pay-television service has been upheld.
The CRTC decision to delay CBC/Radio Canada's licence renewal may aid a Kamloops citizens group in its struggle restore CBC-TV broadcast service to the region.
U.S. Federal Communications Commission hopes to raise between $10-billion and $15-billion (U.S.) in the sale of portions of the radio spectrum — a publicly owned and extremely valuable vehicle to transmit data.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission says that satellite radios don't comply with its power rules and signals sometimes overpower those of stations playing in nearby vehicles.
The CRTC credits the region's economic boom for its decision to license a record number of stations; opponents say it is too many radio stations to throw into the market.
Newcap Inc. has received approval from the CRTC to operate a new FM radio licence in Calgary.
Information on the new Danish Radio and Television Board, the Media Secretariat and the Press Council.
India media observer says that the most important pre-requisite of an effective media regulatory body is that it be taken seriously by the media industry.
India media observer says the primary objective of media regulation in a democracy is to preserve and protect citizens' fundamental rights to information and freedom of expression.
Canada's specialty television channels will go under the microscope of the CRTC in 2007 after a major review of conventional TV concludes.
In India, journalists object to provisions of a proposed Broadcast Bill empowering the government to cripple media through pre-censorship; the media industry has been lobbying against the Bill's attempt to regulate ownership.
PBS member station issued large indecency fine after single viewer complaint.
The CRTC plans to open the public review of the CHUM transaction to a broader debate on federal policies on media ownership - FRIENDS says media consolidation must be addressed.
FRIENDS says a precedent set with Canwest Global points to a CRTC approval of the Bell Globemedia acquisition of CHUM.
CRTC reports states that new technologies influence the telecom industry by reducing costs and enabling the delivery of traditional services by non-traditional service providers.
This fall the Prime Minister will pick a replacement for the outgoing CRTC Chair - the choice will provide indication on future directions for Canadian broadcasting and telecommunications.
Bell Globemedia ownership restructuring approved - one CRTC commissioner said the regulator should have added to the Canadian-content and other benefits that CTV is required to provide as a condition of its broadcast licences.
CRTC approves application by Bell Globemedia to change its effective control, concludes that new obligations under Benefits Policy will not be triggered.
Implications of the Bell Globemedia-CHUM cash deal go far beyond any regulatory hurdles and divestiture of competing assets.
Article notes CHUM takeover proposal may affect analysis of proposed Bell Globemedia restructuring and whether the restructuring will trigger a benefits payment under CRTC rules.
The Canadian Association of Journalists urges Heritage Minister Bev Oda and the CRTC to carefully scrutinize the proposed takeover of CHUM Ltd. by Bell Globemedia Inc., and ensure that Canada's media landscape doesn't suffer further erosion of diversity.
CHUM to lay off 281 employees - critics want the proposed takeover stopped in the public interest.
Rogers Sportsnet has applied to the CRTC for permission to fill up to 6 hours if its broadcast week with Homegrown movies and dramas.
Industry Canada issues new licensees so satellite operators can deliver new services such as high-definition television.
Nineteen applicants are applying for new FM licences in the booming communities of Fort McMurray and Grande Prairie Alberta - FRIENDS says the CRTC could take six months before announcing decisions.
Latest CRTC report shows Canadians are tuning in to satellite television in greater numbers at the expense of cable TV.
A CRTC-wide re-organization has been undertaken to respond to shifting communications and media industries and technologies.
Study concludes the Internet has taken some the time Canadians used to spend watching TV or listening to the radio.
CRTC reports that viewership of foreign programming jumped by almost 80 per cent on CBC-TV - FRIENDS says this underlines a deeper problem.
FRIENDS says that the record level of foreign shows on CBC-TV is more evidence that CBC needs direction from Parliament and Canadians to return to its public broadcasting mandate.
CRTC report updates performance indicators for the Canadian broadcast industry including data on new technologies such as high definition and iPods.
Senate report recommends that CBC television should not provide services that inappropriately duplicate those of the private sector, such as the coverage of professional sports and the Olympics.
CRTC chairman states Canadian television stations may be forced to produce more Canadian comedies and dramas by 2008.
Editorial says giving elected politicians the power to make decisions on media mergers would undermine public confidence in MPs and news gatherers.
Editorial says government and CRTC intervention in media mergers could lead to decision makers using their new power for selfish purposes.
The Senate's standing committee on transport and communications suggests setting media market share threshold at 35%.
The CRTC is studying recommendations made by a federal review panel that examined the telecom industry - some proposed changes are already being made.
Darren Entwistle lobbies that a new regulatory framework is warranted because of the increasingly blurred line between the telecom and broadcasting industries.
Industry Minister Maxime Bernier tells the CRTC to rely on market forces in the telecommunications industry to the "maximum extent feasible."
For the first time since the adoption of the Telecommunications Act, the government has issued a policy direction to the CRTC.
Darren Entwistle, Telus CEO's speech to the Canadian Telecom Summit in Toronto remarks on the implementation of the Telecom Policy Review panel recommendations and developing a new regulatory framework given the challenges of a broadband IP world.
On June 12, 2006 the CRTC issued two calls for public comment on broadcasting issues.
Chairman of the CRTC announces a review of the regulatory framework for over-the-air television in a speech to the 2006 Banff World Television Festival.
CBC/Radio-Canada's licence renewal delayed after Federal Heritage Minister Bev Oda's announcement of a six-month review of new television technologies.
ACTRA welcomes the CRTC review of television policy and calls for a guarantee that Canadian programming has a place on the public airwaves.
CRTC study to help the government set its broadcasting policy for the 21st century.
The Conservative government is calling for an immediate study of the effects of changing technology on the radio and television industries - expected to take precedence over a review being planned by the CRTC.
FRIENDS recommends that the CRTC not approve a satellite subscription radio application from Rogers Cable until sufficient Canadian audio programming is offered in accord with the Commission's policies.
FRIENDS issues statement following the failure of Heritage Minister Bev Oda to announce a mandate review of CBC.
Federal Heritage Minister Bev Oda has asked the CRTC to determine what impact rapidly changing technology will have on the broadcast industry's future - move expected to delay the CBC's renewal licence for a year.
A regulatory showdown is looming in the U.S. over multicasting - the technology that would allow transmission of several television channels in the bandwidth of an analog broadcast signal.
The Federal government and the CRTC are expected to release details of a policy review that could reshape television rules.
A discussion paper prepared for the Banff World Television Film Festival says that Canadian broadcasters need to integrate with the global media business to prosper in the new digital environment.
Executive Summary of a report that will facilitate a Town Hall discussion on the future of Canadian television and Canadian television programming at the Banff World Television Festival.
Reform of the CBC likely to be the Conservative government's first step in a more sweeping overhaul of the broadcasting industry.
CRTC review of TV sector may see broadcasters invest more in Canadian programming in return for flexibility on rules.
A discussion paper on the future of public broadcasting in Canada by a former member of the CBC board of directors.
The CRTC has cleared the way for cable companies to advertise services on Canadian broadcasts of U.S. specialty channels.
While the Canadian Association of Broadcasters wants CanCon requirements lowered, CBC Radio 3 finds success playing emerging Canadian artists almost exclusively.
Citizens in Kamloops BC lobby the CBC President and the CRTC for access to CBC television over public airwaves.
Groups call for stricter regulation of product placement and looser rules for online services at a hearing on European Union broadcast policy reform.
The Saskatchewan government is asking the federal cabinet to take action on a CRTC decision that restricts the public phone utility's ability to compete with new market entrants.
CRTC approves first new radio station in PEI in more than twenty years.
The Federal Communications Commission is investigating American television stations for broadcasting items produced by the Bush administration and major corporations, passing them off as news.
The CRTC is handing large phone companies more than $620 million to bring broadband access to rural markets already served by smaller competitors.
Columnist describes how recent controversial decisions, the inability to uphold its own rules and the current political environment make the CRTC's existence precarious.
Industry Canada documents suggest intention to deregulate Canada's telecommunications industry and relax rules governing foreign ownership.
Responding to a question posed by the CRTC Chair during the hearings on Commercial Radio Policy, FRIENDS provides information regarding its organization and financing.
CRTC sides with CBC, decides TSN cannot broadcast more than one hockey game nationally at the same time; CBC had argued competition from TSN for advertising revenues would make it uneconomical for the public broadcaster to air sports on TV.
Canadian performers' union condemns Canadian private broadcasters for spending on U.S. programs, including strategic purchases for programs they have no intention to air, at the expense of investment in Canadian programming.
Editorial comments on challenges facing CRTC in setting regulatory policy for private radio.
FRIENDS welcomes decision to break up pay television duopoly and licence new pay television provider.
French-language radio stations argue for cut in Cancon quotas to compete with English broadcasters in bilingual markets.
Listen to radio interviews from CBC's The Current with Anna Maria Tremonti.
The Canadian Association of Broadcasters propose new rules for private radio that would allow stations to meet Cancon requirements without playing as many Canadian songs.
Despite record profits, private radio broadcasters appeal to the CRTC to cut Canadian-content limits, predicting a future decline in listeners attributed to Ipods, podcasting, Internet streaming and satellite radio.
The commercial radio lobby that seeks more flexibility from the CRTC faces opposition from groups - including FRIENDS - calling for stricter Canadian content rules on conventional radio stations.
Private radio broadcasters seek changes geared toward "slow de-regulation" of their industry.
Internet law professor says CRTC commercial radio proceeding is focusing on the wrong issues.
FRIENDS opposes plan by private broadcasters to reduce the overall quantity of Canadian content on radio.
Columnist argues the CRTC's conflicting roles - to foster competition in the telecommunication industry while also ensuring Canadian artists and programming are allowed to flourish - demonstrate a need for reform.
FRIENDS opposes industry arguments for lower Canadian content requirements at CRTC hearings on commercial radio policy; seeks increase in Cancon to 40%, with at least one quarter reserved for emerging genres and artists.
Editorial says that communications sector foreign ownership limits should fall only after the sector has been deregulated.
National Post editorial advocates reduced role for CRTC, argues that federal broadcasting regulations should be loosened quickly, including those restricting foreign ownership.
The Conservative government has ordered the CRTC to review and reconsider its decision on Internet telephony, or VoIP; the intervention marks the first time since 1994 that the federal cabinet has demanded that the CRTC change a ruling.
Canadian artists oppose proposed music piracy laws.
The CRTC's hands-off policy on mobile television criticized as missed opportunity to adapt Canadian-content requirements to the new medium and encourage domestic talent.
The CRTC sets out priorities for 2006-2009, including moving towards telecommunications sector deregulation, reviewing regulatory policies to address technological and economic developments, and preparing for licence renewal hearings of the major over-the-air broadcasters.
FRIENDS says lifting broadcasting foreign ownership restrictions does not have public support, doubts legislative amendments would be passed in a minority government situation.
FM radio listeners find National Public Radio, Christian station programming interrupted by satellite radio broadcasts of Howard Stern.
Canada's two highly profitable pay-TV networks - Astral Media and Corus Entertainment - have been lobbying to retain a tightly regulated sector while the CRTC looks at allowing competitors into the market.
Canadian artists and arts organizations await Conservative budget to see if a Liberal plan to invest $342 million in the arts over three years will be honoured.
Andre Arthur, former radio shock jock turned independent MP, has been named to the House of Commons standing committee that oversees the CRTC.
Economic think-tank executive questions relevance of the CRTC.
Columnist calls Internet television a "dumping ground for failed shows and repeats"; comments on CBC decision to eliminate design staff.
U.S. Federal Communications Commission investigates four of the U.S.'s largest radio corporations over accusations that radio programmers received gifts, cash and other items in exchange for playing songs for particular artists and labels, without disclosing the deals.
CRTC abandons 30-year-old requirement for cable companies to carry commercial radio stations to make space for more digital and high-definition channels.
Op-ed by former CBC president states government must reduce role of the CRTC and advance telecom reform before Canada falls behind in the telecom industry.
Editorial says the CRTC made the correct decision by exempting television delivered over the Internet from Canadian content regulations.
In lead-up to television policy review, CHUM argues technology, competition eroding conventional television audiences, creating financial challenges.
CBC management note to staff confirms CBC licence renewal hearing has been deferred.
Columnist praises CRTC decision on television delivered over mobile phones.
Telcos praise CRTC decision not to regulate television over mobile phones; ACTRA raises concerns about lack of requirements for Canadian content, production funding.
CRTC sites unknown future impact on broadcasters as reason for exempting services delivered over the Internet from regulation - including Canadian content requirements.
CRTC takes hands-off approach to the regulation of mobile TV services; ACTRA and other groups argue the lack of Canadian-content requirements puts Canada's cultural future at risk.
Six Canadian independent record labels leave CRIA following difference of opinion over CRIA submission to CRTC on Canadian content rules for commercial radio.
Article says Conservative government will allow CRTC to conduct television industry review, but under federal Heritage Department direction; CBC licence renewal to be delayed until industry review complete.
Columnist argues private TV networks should look for creative solutions to regulatory, competitive and technological challenges; predicts arguments private broadcasters will make before CRTC television policy review.
Columnist calls for CRTC reform after broadcast license issued in Toronto without general call for applications.
Struggling CanWest Global hopes for lighter television regulations, sees reason for optimism in recent CRTC decisions to create a more "market-driven" telecommunications industry.
Canadian Conference of the Arts assesses recommendations in Telecommunications Policy Review Panel report and their impact on Canadian cultural sovereignty.
U.S. cable industry sees threats and opportunities.
CanWest posts loss, blames poor television ad sales and rising Canadian dollar.
Quebecor calls for adoption of more U.S.-style regulations where broadcasting conglomerates can more easily obtain rights to air content over multiple platforms.
FRIENDS supports the arguments in the joint submission of ACTRA, the Directors Guild of Canada and the Writers Guild of Canada that allowing Bell Globemedia to transfer ownership without payment of public benefits will create a significant and dangerous precedent; questions Bell Globemedia's reluctance to propose a benefits package consistent with that approved in BCE's year 2000 acquisition of CTV.
Quebec Film and Television Production Association opposes Bell Globemedia arguments that public benefits should not apply to its proposed ownership reorganization.
Quebecor chief executive Pierre Karl Péladeau hopes fast-tracked CRTC review of Canadian television sector will establish new system of payments to broadcasters.
Creative unions oppose Bell Globemedia's claims to CRTC that the Commission's Benefits Policy does not apply to the proposed application.
CRTC report states private television stations increased revenues and profits over 2001-2005 period.
National Post-sponsored web poll of "business leaders" says foreign ownership limits "inadvertently" weaken Canada's identity and should be eliminated; also calls for reduced role for CRTC.
Columnist laments that Canadian broadcasters no longer broadcast Canadian drama series long enough for them to build a loyal audience.
Editorial board member of Canwest-owned paper recommends dismantling of CRTC.
Pressured by private broadcasters, CRTC to accelerate schedule for conducting television policy review.
FRIENDS says public funding of Canadian content on private broadcasters helps finance spending spree on Hollywood fare; notes that spending by Canada’s private broadcasters on Canadian drama programs has decreased over the last three years, while spending on American drama has never been higher.
FRIENDS, ACTRA discouraged by CRTC data on private broadcaster investment in Canadian drama; say CRTC must strengthen requirements.
CRTC publishes 2005 figures on Canadian television revenues and expenditures.
ACTRA condemns increase in Canadian private broadcasters' spending on U.S. programming.
Editorial questions the long-term role of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission.
Columnist outlines consumer-focused proposals within telecommunications policy review report - including network neutrality, ubiquitous broadband access, privacy, spam, and consumer protection - that merit government intervention or support.
Columnist predicts Telecom Policy Review Panel report will trigger restructuring of communications companies to separate telecom from broadcast and media assets.
Editorial says Telecom Policy Review Panel report is ill-timed, since telecom policy not on near-term agenda of new Conservative government.
Delivery of TV shows online raises questions about the survival of Canadian content.
Telecom Policy Review Panel recommends end to foreign ownership rules in telecom sector, but says restrictions on licensed broadcasters should remain until sector-specific review can be conducted.
Telecommunications Policy Review Panel calls for reliance on market forces and acceleration of deregulation in the telecom industry; columnist praises report as an end to the "gaming" of the CRTC by industry.
According to the Telecommunications Policy Review Panel, Ottawa should implement a "phased liberalization" of foreign ownership rules for telecom companies that are not broadcasters.
Key recommendations of the report of the Telecommunications Policy Review Panel include liberalizing foreign ownership rules, scaling back the role of the CRTC, and conducting a similar policy review of the regulation of the broadcasting sector.
Telecom Policy Review Panel recommends fundamental changes in regulation in telecom sector; opens door to similar review of broadcasting sector.
Competition Bureau tells CRTC not to regulate new forms of broadcasting and to deregulate old ones.
CTV to sidestep programming restrictions under MTV Canada broadcasting licence by launching Web streaming and mobile "mobisodes" on cellphones.
CBS experiment with free online television broadcasts seen as sign of the future.
Columnist dissects private radio lobby's arguments for greater regulatory flexibility, contends private radio is the architect of its own decline.
Observers see room in Canadian market for both MuchMusic and CTV-controlled MTV Canada brands.
Alliance Atlantis specialty channel seeks reduction in Cancon requirements to address financial problems.
Private broadcasters seek to limit further radio licences to reduce competition.
Telecommunications Policy Review Panel expected to call for more market-oriented approach to regulation in report to be released this week.
FRIENDS says conventional radio is a healthy industry capable of making substantial contributions to broadcasting policy goals.
U.S. broadcasters are beginning to introduce brand placement/integration advertising in local news programming.
Private radio broadcasters paint doomsday scenario, appeal to CRTC for more lenient regulation.
Radio broadcasters use low Canadian content requirements approved for U.S. satellite radio services to justify demands for lower Cancon on conventional stations.
Digitally inserted product placement ads or "virtual ads" are a small but growing portion of ad revenue for CanWest's Global TV network
Commercial radio broadcasters seek less regulation from CRTC.
Interview with the former Rogers executive that has been overseeing the restructuring and re-organization of the administrative functions of the CRTC.
Public broadcaster BBC told to focus on entertainment programming, but not chase ratings or copy successful programs from other broadcasters.
Commercial radio providers claim new technologies are a real threat to highly successful business model, argue local focus will not be enough to keep audiences.
No longer willing to compete against the Internet for viewers, media giants such as News Corp., Viacom Inc. and NBC Universal are aggressively acquiring the Internet companies that have been attracting their audiences.
CBC television has failed to recapture its Toronto-market local news audience, lost following the year 2000 decision by senior management to cut local news across the country.
President says CBC is "only partly" a public broadcaster; columnist notes that review of CBC mandate proposed by Heritage Minister would hold up CRTC licence renewal process.
Text of speech by CBC President and Chief Executive Officer, Robert Rabinovitch, on the future of CBC.
MuchMusic owner CHUM says it will monitor whether MTV Canada operates within conditions of licence; real competition between MTV Canada and MuchMusic may occur over the Internet.
The eventual consequence of a free market for television channels, in which distributors are no longer required to sell most channels as part of a bundle, could be less choice for consumers if distributors refuse to offer channels that fail to meet a minimum subscriber threshold.
Canadian version of U.S. satellite radio service XM Radio has signed up 44,000 subscribers since November 2005 startup, expects one million by August 2010.
Columnist praises CRTC announcement that it will eventually permit cable distributors to sell programming services individually rather than as part of a bundle, but attacks niche programming services in the process.
VisionTV President/CEO says columnist misses the point of CRTC cable unbundling policy by failing to recognize role of economics in channel placement and ultimately, availability to viewers.
Campus and community radio sector considers 30 percent female musical content standard modelled on Canadian content requirements.
CRTC seeks public comment on plan by BCE to sell majority ownership stake in the company that owns CTV and The Globe and Mail.
Columnist applauds CRTC for plan to bring eventual end to cable channel bundling; criticizes extent to which specialty channel W has strayed from its original licence conditions.
CRTC to require cable distributors to retain bundled programming tiers until 2013, but allow them to move to an "a la carte" system earlier if they transfer more than 85 percent of their subscribers to digital.
CRTC policy to allow cable unbundling no later than 2013 expected to result in higher, not lower bills for consumers.
Columnist says in an age of media convergence, the CRTC should implement policies that fund creators regardless of distribution platform.
Disaffiliation of CBC affiliate in Kamloops, British Columbia to result in denial of CBC television to viewers without access to cable or satellite service.
Stursberg announces “audience-first” programming strategy at CBC, where new Canadian drama programs must attract a minimum of 1 million viewers; FRIENDS critical of fact that both private networks are within “Cancon-catching distance” of the federally-funded public broadcaster.
CHOI-FM, the Quebec City radio station whose broadcasting licence was withdrawn by the CRTC, is urging the new Conservative government in Ottawa to reverse the CRTC's decision.
Despite initial success in gaining market share, satellite television operators now face numerous strategic disadvantages compared to their cable counterparts.
CanWest tells investment conference it hopes Conservative government will lighten regulatory burden on private broadcasters.
Howard Stern comments on satellite radio launch in Canada.
New York Times profiles independent MP who believes CRTC should be eliminated.
Profile of battle among CBC, private broadcasters for top local news program ratings in Toronto.
Report says the growth of non-regulated sources of television such as the Internet threatenens the conventional television business model, may spell the death of local television.
FRIENDS says Canada will not be far behind when the U.S. ends over-the-air analogue broadcasting, currently scheduled for February 2009; as many as one in six Canadians still rely on over-the-air signals.
Sirius Canada to proceed with Howard Stern, believes access and control levels will address content concerns; anti-violence group advocates quick response by CRTC.
Satellite radio provider argues subscribers' ability to block Howard Stern should be sufficient to allay any CRTC, Canadian Broadcast Standards Council concerns.
Sirius Canada adds Howard Stern to lineup to ensure its subscribers have the "best, most compelling radio"; CBC, which owns 40% of Sirius Canada, rumoured to have resisted decision.
CBC rationalizes decision by Sirius Canada, 40% owned by CBC, to carry Howard Stern.
European Commission publishes white paper on communication policy, focusing partly on media and new technologies; calls communication "first and foremost a matter of democracy."
ACTRA criticizes failure of CRTC to impose positive obligations on private broadcasters to increase production and exhibition of Canadian drama.
CRTC sets targets for viewing and expenditure components of its drama incentive program.
Satellite radio provider Sirius Canada does about-face, decides to offer Howard Stern in Canada; competitor XM Canada doubts programming will have long term impact on ratings.
Health Council of Canada report concludes Canada should strengthen restrictions on advertising of pharmaceuticals; pharmaceutical industry denies direct-to-consumer advertising is a priority.
Quebec MP said to want to shut down the CRTC.
IBM predicts end of conventional television, obsolescence of CRTC Canadian content regulation; significant changes to television landscape expected by 2012.
Culture minister speaks out against European Union internet regulation plan, stops short of warning Ofcom against allowing product placement in television programs.
Changes in technology may force the CRTC to undertake a television policy review sooner then intended.
Thirty three national organizations call on federal government to uphold and promote the goals of the Telecommunications Act.
Large numbers of Canadian Howard Stern fans have reportedly subscribed to Sirius' American satellite radio service, since the Canadian service has declared it will not carry Stern's controversial programming.
Sirius Canada says it does not as of yet plan to broadcast the Howard Stern show in Canada.
Recent appointments alter composition of U.S. Federal Communications Commission; two commissioners are required by law to be from a party other than the party that holds the presidency.
Opinion piece says that Canada's cultural subsidy and regulatory structure reflects the interests of the large commercial media conglomerates as opposed to those of Canada's creative class.
The fixed 2009 deadline for digital television conversion in the U.S. poses some serious problems for Canadian culture funding and regulation.
