Media consultants say that the wireless spectrum auction and the privatization of Bell Canada will be the big Canadian telecommunications stories of 2008.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has approved rules that will set new parameters for the size and scope of the largest news and cable companies.
The Harper government has given CRTC commissioners a 7% pay raise.
With issues such as a public hearings on the Canadian Television Fund, the takeover bid of Alliance Atlantis and new legislation on the horizon, columnist says 2008 promises to be even more eventful than 2007.
A year in review of the top headlines for the Canadian broadcasting industry in 2007.
A recent CRTC decision to review HDTV Networks' application for a national over-the-air HD licence in Canada means that existing high definition content provider, High Fidelity HDTV, may soon have competition.
If HDTV Networks receives CRTC approval it would become Canada's third-largest commercial TV network after CTV and Global.
A subsidiary of the company that controls XM Satellite Radio wants to launch a free, over-the-air high-definition television network based in Vancouver.
Broadcasters and newspaper publishers aren't content with a plan by the U.S. broadcast regulator to remove the existing media cross-ownership ban.
The CRTC has approved the application by Montreal-based Sex-Shop Television to operate a digital French-language channel devoted to "the themes (of) sex appeal, sensuality, eroticism and sexuality".
The National Cable & Telecommunications Association President says the U.S. broadcast regulator has an agenda to hurt the nation's biggest cable operators.
The CRTC says cable companies and television networks will be given the opportunity to debate "time shifting" - where viewers can watch TV from outside their time zone - at hearings set for April.
The President and CEO of VisionTV says the CRTC should engage in a public and open re-think of Internet regulation.
Submission to the CRTC by Keith Mahar recommends a judicial review of the activities of Canada's broadcast regulator in establishing what became the Canadian Television Fund; restructuring the Canadian Television Fund; changes in subsidies to production companies; and the creation of a Citizen Utility Board to better protect public interests.
Columnist says CRTC commissioners should be skeptical of claims that U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs will have little influence in its partnership with CanWest.
CanWest has offered to make a number of changes to its financing arrangement with Goldman Sachs to ensure the U.S. investment bank has "no veto" over day-to-day decisions.
CanWest president and CEO Leonard Asper sees lowers ratings and further budget cuts if the CRTC halts the proposed purchase of Alliance Atlantis.
Unions representing media workers affected by the sale of Alliance Atlantis want the benefits package bumped to $142.2 million from $136.9 million.
Canada's broadcast regulator tells proposed buyers of Alliance Atlantis it sees problems with the power-sharing arrangement designed to skirt caps on foreign ownership.
Despite the size and complexity of the transaction in front of it, a streamlined panel of just four CRTC commissioners is presiding over the proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis.
The managing director of Goldman Sachs claims his company respects the law governing foreign ownership of domestic broadcasters, adding its role is merely one of "financial backer."
Leonard Asper, chief executive of CanWest told the CRTC he would work "in a significant way" to address concerns about the influence U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs could have in the proposed acquisition of Alliance Atlantis.
The CRTC kicked off hearings into the proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis by expressing concerns about the role to be played by New York-based investment firm Goldman Sachs.
Media unions say the proposed takeover of Alliance Atlantis is an attempt to introduce foreign ownership of Canadian media interests by a back door.
Officials from CanWest and Goldman Sachs will attempt to convince the CRTC that the purchase of Alliance Atlantis is good for the Canadian television sector and abides by Canada's foreign ownership rules.
The Writers Guild of Canada says if the CRTC does nothing to support the creation of Canadian content soon the homegrown film and TV industry will continue its decline.
The U.S. broadcast regulator is preparing new regulations to open the cable television market to independent programmers and rival video services after determining that cable companies have become too dominant in the industry.
CEP says CanWest will be in breach of its broadcast licences if it moves ahead with plans to centralize its Global television operations without CRTC approval.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada files a letter of complaint with the CRTC saying CanWest MediaWorks is violating its broadcast licence obligations under the Broadcasting Act.
The president and CEO of VisionTV says that if the CRTC accedes to cable industry wishes, much of the programming diversity currently available to Canadians will disappear.
The U.S. government is looking at new rules that would allow media companies to get even bigger.
Heritage Minister Josée Verner says the interests of consumers are the most important factor in the debate over whether Canada's largest television networks should be allowed to charge for their signals.
Columnist says Heritage Minister Josée Verner spoke frankly about the CRTC, Canadian Television Fund and proposed copyright legislation in a speech to the Canadian Association of Broadcasters.
CRTC chair Konrad von Finckenstein outlines three key priorities for Canada's broadcast regulator.
Columnist says cable companies and conventional broadcasters are headed for another battle over carriage fees.
The CRTC chair says Canada's broadcast regulator is willing to revisit the "fee-for-carriage" issue.
The Honourable Josée Verner talks about the government's policy priorities at a broadcast industry conference.
A deal for S-VOX to purchase two multi-faith television stations owned by Rogers Broadcasting will require approval from the CRTC.
The CRTC announces that hearings for possible introduction of a subscriber fee for the carriage of local conventional television stations will begin April 7, 2008.
CRTC chair Konrad von Finckenstein says some Canadian Association of Broadcasting members wrote their Members of Parliament opposing any new funding for the CRTC.
Editorial says the CRTC made the right decision in 1999 not to regulate the Internet.
CRTC's VP of broadcasting says the broadcast regulator is studying the issue of Internet regulation and plans to hold public hearings at the end of 2008.
The president and chief executive of VisionTV says cable companies calling for more competition and less protection is meant for others - not for them.
A group of film, TV and music organizations is calling on the Minster of Canadian Heritage to put pressure on the CRTC to enforce its cultural and social policies - and the requirements of the Broadcasting Act - more rigorously.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission, hoping to reduce the rising costs of cable TV, plans to revoke thousands of contracts that gave cable companies exclusive rights to provide service to apartment buildings.
Telecommunications companies are blasting the CRTC for proposing to allow representatives of competing companies to view confidential information during regulatory reviews.
A push by Rogers to insert advertising into its video-on-demand service has been put on hold by the CRTC until the potential impact can be examined.
Columnist predicts outrage in early 2009 when millions of Americans realize that they will have to upgrade their televisions and pay higher cable bills.
CTV tells federal regulators that broadcasters need the right to withdraw their most popular specialty channels if they feel their other properties are being treated unfairly by cable and satellite carriers.
FRIENDS supports the highest level of transparency and access to information possible in future CRTC proceedings.
Independent television broadcasters tell the CRTC continued diversity of the Canadian television system depends on preserving a place for small, independent specialty services.
S-VOX Trust tells the CRTC domestic television needs a mandatory "basic" package consisting predominantly of Canadian channels.
Rogers Communications says the CRTC should stop protecting Canadian channels from direct competition and make it easier to bring in foreign channels.
Columnist outlines options for consumers on February 17, 2009, when the U.S. will end analog television transmission.
Columnist says that an almost complete turnover of CRTC commissioners will have a significant bearing on federal broadcasting and telecommunications policy at a critical time.
FRIENDS tells the CRTC that cultural sovereignty must come first and foremost in any redesign of the regulatory framework for big cable and satellite companies.
The FCC has told the U.S. government that the best way to ensure a successful transition to digital TV is to require cable operators to carry all the channels a broadcaster offers after analog transmission ceases in 2009.
Amidst growing popularity of U.S. television shows, several German politicians are calling for a quota for homemade series in primetime.
Britain has begun the first phase of its switch-off of analogue television broadcasting.
Columnist says that as Canada's digital music market continues to grow it needs innovation rather than new intellectual property regulation.
The union for CanWest Global TV in Quebec has complained to the CRTC that the station is not respecting its legal commitments to produce 18 hours of regional, original programming per week.
The CRTC has proposed new rules that would allow the commission to bar the public and competing companies from hearings when confidential corporate information is discussed.
The CRTC has called for comments on a proposed direction on the provision of access to confidential information.
The CRTC says it has no plans to provide converter boxes in the border areas to help Canadian viewers of U.S. over-the-air TV programming keep getting signals when the U.S. goes digital in February 2009.
Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, has appointed Leonard M. Katz as vice-chair (Telecommunications) and Peter Menzies as a part-time member to the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission.
Cuts to the news operations of television networks in the past year have the Canadian Media Guild calling on the CRTC to regulate at least 30 minutes of local news each weeknight.
Columnist says the CRTC should mandate Canadian content requirements on the country's movie screens.
A CRTC decision means Internet companies such as Rogers and Bell Canada no longer have to wait 90 days to contact customers that have switched to competitors.
Plans to break up Europe's telecom and cable monopolies have been backed by the European Regulators Group as a way to boost competition in the industry.
CRTC commissioned "Osborne report" says incumbent phone companies should not have to open up their network to other would-be competitors.
The CRTC has made public an independent report prepared by Michael Osborne on its policies for wholesale telecommunications services.
CanWest's chief executive says the company's partnership with Goldman Sachs to purchase Alliance Atlantis 'meets the letter and spirit of the law.'
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union says the CRTC is abdicating its responsibility to the Canadian public by not forcing Rogers to reinstate local news programming in its City TV stations.
As a result of its approved purchase of Standard Radio, Astral Media will become Canada's largest radio broadcaster operating 83 stations in eight provinces.
A report says the CRTC should be monitoring online content, as well as television and radio content, to ensure the objectives of the Broadcasting Act are upheld.
Rogers has applied for CRTC approval to extend its cable network into several fast-growing Toronto suburbs now served by Cogeco Cable.
Shaw condemns CRTC decision to exclude the top basic cable programming service in the US from the lists of non-Canadian services it is allowed to carry.
Columnist says Canadian broadcasters must shift from reliance on protective regulations and US content, to an unregulated environment in which they compete by delivering original Canadian content to an international audience.
Comments on the final day of the CRTC diversity hearings, including presentation by FRIENDS.
Rogers endorses Bell proposal for guidelines instead of firm rules for ensuring Canadian content and programming diversity in future media consolidation.
FRIENDS tells the CRTC BDUs have a huge impact on diversity of voices and should be a focus of the CRTC's review.
Rogers angrily dismisses rumours it may have plans to acquire Shaw.
CRTC expresses reservations over suggestion it should ensure separation between newsrooms when companies own multiple media outlets.
CRTC schedules hearings to assess proposed takeover of BCE.
Columnist perplexed by Shaw CEO's criticism of successful Canadian television series Trailer Park Boys.
Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union tells CRTC that broadcasters should be required to compete for licences when they come up for renewal.
Overview of presentations by media unions and arts organizations to CRTC diversity hearings, and further observations on nature of media coverage.
Private broadcasters argue programming diversity strengthened by industry consolidation.
Distributors counter arguments by broadcasters that they constitute a threat to diversity in the broadcasting system.
Report suggests disproportionate media attention paid to presentations by large players at CRTC diversity hearings.
Chair reveals plan for CRTC hearings on select matters related to the future of the Canadian Television Fund.
Private broadcasters vocal in opposition to market concentration rules.
Astral Media tells CRTC diversity hearing that gatekeeper role of cable companies and other broadcast distributors constitutes greatest threat to media diversity in Canada.
CRTC chair dismisses Shaw argument that future media mergers should be governed on a "case by case" basis rather than through a set of clear rules.
Report contrasts CBC, private broadcasters' presentations to CRTC diversity hearings.
Unions discuss submissions to CRTC diversity hearings.
Article questions need for CRTC diversity hearings, notes investment analysts are concerned that hearings will affect capital markets.
CBC tells CRTC diversity hearings that CBC can serve as a partial counterbalance to private sector consolidation.
CRTC seeks broadcaster comments on scenarios for potential media concentration limits.
CRTC to postpone decision on future of Canadian Television Fund until December.
Private broadcasters, distributors, arts groups expected to face off at CRTC diversity hearings.
Opinion piece argues the CRTC should recognize the limitations on its authority imposed by new technology.
Columnist praises CRTC-commissioned report on reforms to Canadian broadcasting regulations.
FRIENDS says changes to simultaneous substitution and genre protection rules could have major impact on Canadian sports specialty channels and Canadian content in sports programming.
Television industry reportedly "livid" about CRTC-commissioned report on potential changes to Canadian broadcasting regulation.
Columnist complains broadcasting industry displays counterintuitive reaction to suggestions CRTC may loosen regulation.
ACTRA says it welcomes a CRTC-commissioner report on regulatory reforms.
Authors of 300-page report on broadcasting regulation commissioned by CRTC particularly critical of simultaneous substitution and its impact on the quantity of foreign programming in prime time.
Canadian Association of Broadcasters claims CRTC-commissioned report on changes to broadcasting regulation lacks context and analysis, calls certain recommendations an "assault".
Columnist predicts CanWest could become even more highly leveraged if it is required to buy out a portion of Goldman Sachs' interest during a recession.
CRTC releases commissioned report on changes to broadcasting regulation, indicates recommendations will be considered in its forthcoming review of policies on specialty/pay services and broadcasting distribution, and may cause it to revisit aspects of its recently reviewed radio and over-the-air television policies.
CanWest is confident that it will not be required to increase its financial contribution to address foreign ownership concerns in its acquisition of Alliance Atlantis with Goldman Sachs as majority partner.
CRTC releases commissioned report recommending it consider changes to central features of current television regulations, including simulcasting, Canadian content in prime time, genre protections for cable networks, and CRTC enforcement powers.
CRTC set to release report it commissioned on ways to maximize the reliance of the broadcasting sector on market forces.
Article says CanWest management not phased by tough reputation of CRTC chair, contends precedent for allowing approval of majority foreign ownership of a Canadian broadcaster.
CanWest CEO confident that CRTC will approve Goldman Sachs acquisition of Alliance Atlantis on the basis of shareholders' agreement granting programming control to CanWest.
Article says Shaw has ignored 2002 CRTC decision to restore requirements for volunteer-produced local programming on community cable channels.
Issues of timing, quality, access likely to plague conversion from analog to digital broadcasting system.
Columnist says that if the CRTC went ahead with scheduled public hearings into CanWest's $2.3-billion buyout of Alliance Atlantis, opponents would have had legal grounds to overturn the eventual ruling.
ACTRA is calling on the CRTC to force broadcasters that acquire rivals to spend more on homegrown dramas and less on U.S. shows.
Columnist says the Canadian Olympic Committee is looking into the feasibility of launching a TV channel dedicated to amateur sport.
Federal broadcast regulators say Rogers is on the hook for $20-million that CHUM was to have contributed toward various initiatives as a result of its 2004 takeover of Craig Media Inc.
Rogers tells the CRTC they will return the CityTV stations to profitability by airing more first-run U.S. network series in primetime.
Industry representatives are calling for more funding of Canadian drama, a renewed commitment to domestic feature films and more local programming as part of Rogers' proposed purchase of the CityTV stations.
According to disclosure documents, XM Satellite Radio spent $580,000 and Sirius Satellite Radio spent $230,000 lobbying the U.S. government on their proposed merger.
The CRTC says a 10-week delay in the hearing to examine the CanWest/Goldman Sachs acquisition of Alliance Atlantis was caused by the late filing of documents by CanWest.
Rogers executives tell the CRTC their plans to revive CityTV include rebuilding the network's prime-time schedule and searching out a high-profile downtown Toronto headquarters.
The head of broadcasting at Rogers Communications says the CityTV stations are unlikely to turn a profit until the third year of the cable firm's ownership.
The CRTC has told CanWest CEO Leonard Asper that he only has himself to blame for the delay in hearing his company's bid to gain control over Alliance Atlantis' specialty channels.
FRIENDS says that by delaying its hearing on the CanWest/Goldman Sachs takeover of Alliance Atlantis, the CRTC is demonstrating it won't simply rubber stamp the deal.
Rogers has added $2 million to its benefits package and agreed to fund priority Canadian programming during CRTC hearings on its $375 million purchase of five CityTV stations.
The CRTC has announced a delay of two months of its review of CanWest Global's $2.3-billion bid to acquire Alliance Atlantis.
CRTC officials say they believe the Astral Media takeover of Standard Broadcasting is worth more $1.08-billion, and that certain items have been left out of the purchase price to reduce regulatory payments.
Columnist says the auction of advanced wireless spectrum - a process that stands to generate hundreds of millions of dollars for federal government coffers - appears to have hit bureaucratic and political snags.
The CRTC has ruled that cable TV must have channel for the visually impaired.
Google CEO says his company will likely move ahead with plans to bid for wireless spectrum freed up once U.S. broadcast television networks switch to digital from analog in 2009.
FRIENDS says about three million Canadians still rely on rabbit ears or other antenna for their TV signals.
Microsoft hopes to convince U.S. broadcast regulators that it can connect consumers to high-speed Internet over unused television airwaves without interfering with existing broadcasts.
The Directors Guild of Canada says it is opposed to the Alliance Atlantis takeover by CanWest/Goldman Sachs as it will result in a non-Canadian entity obtaining control of an important Canadian media company, contrary to established foreign ownership rules.
The Coalition of Canadian Audio-Visual Unions says the takeover bid by CanWest Global and Goldman Sachs of Alliance Atlantis is "bad news" for Canada.
FRIENDS offers advice to the CRTC on CanWest's application to acquire Alliance Atlantis Communications.
Veteran broadcast journalist Michel Morin has been appointed as a commissioner of the CRTC.
The CRTC has approved a broadcasting licence for specialty television channel with programming for people with vision loss.
The co-ordinator of Canadians for Democratic Media says with major mergers threatening to make the Canadian media industry even more concentrated, the CRTC should regulate media companies in the public interest.
Michel Morin, a journalist, economic news editor, and chief editor of television news for both Radio-Canada and RDI has been appointment as a commissioner of the CRTC.
The CRTC has denied an application by Shaw Cable to offer video-on-demand programming containing commercial messages sourced from American broadcasters.
Columnist says federal broadcast regulators appear poised to consider revamping the rules on media consolidation, using a system pioneered by the Australian government.
Proposed New York City rules would require permits for anyone filming on city property with more than two people for more than 30 minutes.
Columnist explains that TV signal providers have little control over the complex factors that determine the volume levels for television shows and commercials.
The CRTC has rejected Alliance Atlantis' argument that "CSI: NY" offered History Television viewers "a critically acclaimed look at forensic policing in post-9/11 New York City."
The CRTC has approved applications from major phone companies to deregulate the $10-billion local phone market in Canada's largest cities.
FRIENDS supports the Rogers acquisition of CHUM City Stations, but offers suggestions for the benefit of Canadian programming.
CRTC rules that the crime-drama CSI has nothing to do with the mandate of the History Channel and has ordered its removal.
The U.S. broadcast regulator has ruled that consumers will be able to use any cellphone and software they want on a network built on airwaves to be auctioned early next year.
A broadcasting industry report says advertisers have almost doubled their spending on online marketing to $1 billion in 2006 from $562 million in 2005.
Columnist expects the deal between CanWest and Goldman Sachs to break up Alliance Atlantis to be scrutinized by the CRTC.
Quebecor Media says it is "disappointed" the CRTC rejected its proposal to opt out of the Canadian Television Fund and produce its own programs.
The Canadian Television Fund says it has no power to implement any of the reforms recommended by a CRTC task force unless a number of federal departments give approval.
The CRTC's annual report on the state of the broadcast industry shows that Canadians have more choices in both television and radio media than ever before, but are watching and listening less.
A broadcast industry report says Canadians watched 27.6 hours of TV per week in 2006, down from 28.1 in 2005.
Stephen Waddell, executive director of ACTRA, says proposals to relax Canadian content requirements for the Canadian Television Fund will force domestic actors, writers and directors to make way for Americans.
CBC/Radio-Canada submission to the CRTC says the public broadcaster strongly opposes the proposal to split the Canadian Television Fund into two separate funding streams.
CRTC report says the Canadian broadcasting industry is continuing to expand and that new media are becoming an increasingly important part of Canadians' lives.
Industry and cable providers criticize proposed CRTC reforms for the Canadian Television Fund.
Editorial says the new telecom complaints commission is a positive step for consumers.
Jim Shaw Jr. claims the proposed revamping of the Canadian Television Fund doesn't go far enough.
Ottawa's CHRI Christian radio station rails against the CRTC's "balance" policy that requires airing views of other faiths.
FRIENDS comments on proposals from a CRTC Task Force on the governance and operation of the Canadian Television Fund.
The CRTC is calling for input on a proposed new broadcasting industry code intended to ensure equality in the portrayal of people with disabilities, visible minorities and aboriginal peoples in the media.
Michael Geist says Canada is falling behind on mobile Internet as a consequence of overpriced mobile data services in an uncompetitive market.
Columnist says lack of action by governments in allocating broadcast spectrum has lead to inefficiencies, lack of competition and stunted economic growth.
In a move toward self-regulation, Telecom competitors have joined forces to file a proposal for the creation of an independent agency to handle consumer complaints.
The CRTC is set to start the process of deregulating home phone rates.
The CRTC is calling for comments on the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council's proposed Journalistic Independence Code.
Columnist says the U.S. has lost its Internet lead because lawmakers have forgotten that sometimes you can't have effective market competition without effective regulation.
The Canadian Association of Broadcasters says traditional media companies should be allowed to merge to compete with unregulated content providers.
Google says it will bid $4.6 billion for a wireless spectrum - but only if the FCC adopts new standards for a wireless broadband alternative to existing phone and cable Internet connections.
Article says that corporate and political leaders in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico are secretly perusing deeper economic, political, social, and security integration.
Britain's telecom regulator says the £100 million phone-in vote and quiz industry had created a culture of greed within television broadcasters.
Canadian media companies want mergers judged on a case-by-case basis.
The Alliance of Francophone Producers has expressed concern to the CRTC that the proposed changes to the financing policies of the Canadian Television Fund run contrary to Canadian broadcasting policy.
FRIENDS says unregulated services threaten to undermine the goals of the Broadcasting Act, and segments of the Canadian media industry now suffer from the negative impact of excessive concentration.
Organization says more than 1,000 Canadians have written the CRTC asking for policies to limit concentration and cross-ownership in the media.
Michael Geist says the CRTC should consider the issue of Internet network neutrality as part of its diversity of voices hearings, so that large media companies are not able to prioritize their own content over diverse, third-party offerings.
Article says the next few months will see the CRTC tackle big issues such as foreign ownership, media concentration and Canadian content.
A CRTC report shows strong revenue gains for Canada's cable and satellite companies in 2006.
The CRTC says it will review rules for cable and satellite broadcasters including genre exclusivity, non-Canadian satellite services and ad time limits on specialty, pay and VOD outlets.
Rogers Media is optimistic that its plans to buy a multicultural channel in Vancouver will be approved by the CRTC, despite its pending purchase of CityTV Vancouver.
Britain's media regulator has fined the BBC £50,000 for faking the results of a phone-in competition on children's television program.
Article says that proposed rule changes for the Canadian Television Fund would permit funded productions to be made without a Canadian in the key roles of a director, writer, or lead performer.
NDP heritage critic Charlie Angus is urging citizens to register their concerns over the concentration of the Canadian media industry.
Rogers bid to purchase a multicultural television station in Vancouver must be approved by the CRTC.
Editorial says the CRTC notice announcing a policy review for Cable and Satellite TV providers hints at a preference for deregulation.
Canadian Documentary producers are concerned of the creative and financial implications of CBC's takeover of the Documentary Channel.
Columnist says the CRTC may allow cable subscribers to pick and choose whatever channels they want for their TV-viewing package.
Canada's federal communications regulator will study the rules governing cable and satellite companies and the specialty and pay-TV industry.
FRIENDS says the biggest issue with the proposed CanWest bid for Alliance Atlantis is CanWest's claim that it is keeping effective ownership and control in Canadian hands when 85 percent of the equity is coming from a New York merchant bank.
Case study describes how changing media consumption habits relate to Canada's broadcast regulatory system.
A new CRTC study will examine the impacts that the unregulated aspects of the new media/multiplatform universe will have on Canadian media.
Politically influenced media coverage is making some U.S. lawmakers talk about reviving the 'Fairness Doctrine' - a set of rules designed to ensure broadcast outlets provide balanced reporting.
Britain's broadcast regulator says it may allow commercial broadcasters to produce politically slanted news programmes.
The Writers Guild of Canada says the CRTC's recommendations for the Canadian Television Fund sell out Canadian talent to "placate Shaw and Videotron."
A CRTC task force has recommended an increase in the minimum fee that broadcasters pay to producers of any programming supported by the Canadian Television Fund.
Rogers has told the CRTC that it will sell OMNI stations in Vancouver and Winnipeg in an effort to clear the way for its $375-million purchase of the CITY-TV network.
A CRTC task force recommends that the CTF be separated into two streams – one supported by Ottawa that would go into "culturally significant" programming, and one supported by the cable and satellite companies that would produce more commercial fare.
The CRTC has made recommendations to improve funding of Canadian programs, increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the CTF, and enhance the participation of funders such as cable companies.
CRTC chairman Konrad von Finckenstein says Ottawa needs to ensure Canadian content is widely available amid the growing popularity of new media platforms that are exempt from government regulation.
CTVglobemedia reveals that the CRTC told the company it would be in for a lengthy battle if the forced sale of CityTV was challenged.
The CRTC has approved a change of ownership at The Canadian Documentary Channel, passing control to CBC.
The CRTC hearing for Astral Media's proposed takeover of Standard Broadcasting will take place at the same time as the hearing for CanWest Global and U.S. investment bank Goldman Sachs' bid for Alliance Atlantis.
Article says the Harper government has signaled it will leave ultimate approval of a possible Telus takeover of BCE to the Competition Bureau and the CRTC.
Article says a merger between Telus and BCE would create a company worth more than $50-billion that would dominate the land-line telephone and cellphone markets across most of the country.
An industry analyst suggests CanWest might need to boost its stake in Alliance Atlantis to 56% from 29% to allay foreign ownership concerns.
A report on U.S. broadcast television ownership has found that women own 5% of the 1,400 commercial broadcast television stations in America, and people of color own just 3.6%.
The head of CRTC says Ottawa should consider merging the laws that govern broadcasting and telecommunications because technology is rapidly bringing the two sectors together.
CEP says Canada's big media corporations are now in the position of choosing their competitors behind closed doors.
Rogers agrees to buy the five Citytv television stations CTVglobemedia was ordered to sell in a deal valued at approximately $375 million.
Article says $375 million deal will increase Rogers' TV presence in Canada's largest markets.
Columnist says the CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision shows that CRTC chair Konrad von Finckenstein will not bend the rules on media concentration.
CRTC chairman Konrad von Finckenstein tells delegates at the Banff International Television Festival that the broadcast regulator needs more resources.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission is seeking comment on the proposed merger of licensees Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio.
Editorial claims that the old CRTC rules have been bypassed by the modern reality of the Canadian media business.
Columnist says Canada's media industry is entering into a period of business intrigue, speculation and gossip.
Columnist says History TV, Canada's history-oriented cable channel, is violating its programming mission by airing CSI: NY.
The CRTC has upheld rules that say two minutes for every hour of television programming must be used to promote Canadian cable programming.
Columnist says future media merger decisions should be postponed until CRTC hearings on media consolidation and diversity, set for September, provide a framework.
FRIENDS says the CRTC has protected editorial diversity in local news and more choices for Canadian content during prime time with its decision to carve out five CityTV stations from the assets acquired by CTVglobemedia from CHUM.
Columnist notes the CRTC took the direction recommended by FRIENDS in their CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision.
FRIENDS applauds the CRTC decision requiring CTVglobemedia to sell CHUM's CityTV stations but allowing them to keep its A-Channel stations.
FRIENDS comments on potential buyers for CHUM's CityTV stations in a CBC Radio One interview.
Columnist says Quebecor and Rogers could find themselves in a bidding war for CHUM's CityTV stations.
FRIENDS says the CRTC "did its job" by making the approval of the CTVglobemedia/CHUM deal conditional on the sale of the Citytv stations.
FRIENDS says the CRTC's CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision ensures that three private-sector national television networks, rather than two, will operate in English-speaking Canada.
CRTC chair says the broadcast regulator's CTVglobemedia/CHUM decision was based on the policy of "maintaining diversity of voices within the Canadian broadcasting system."
FRIENDS says CRTC decision is good for viewers, advertisers and competition and diversity in the Canadian broadcasting system.
Columnist says the CRTC decision will lead to the collapse of a deal CTV struck to sell A-Channel stations to Rogers Communications.
The CRTC has not approved the transfer of five CityTV stations in Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver to CTVglobemedia.
Columnist says that without the purchase of a digital-ready television or a signal converter, nearly 20 million homes in the U.S. will lose over-the-air television transmission on Feb. 17, 2009.
A media policy group's study finds a lack of diversity in the ownership of radio station licenses in the U.S.
Columnist describes how the CRTC is becoming the target of a new media democracy movement.
A U.S. appeals court has tossed out an indecency ruling against Fox television and questioned whether the Federal Communications Commission has the right to police the airwaves for offensive language.
Larche Communications and Rogers are set to swap ownership of KICX 106 in Kitchener-Waterloo for CICX-FM in Orillia, Ontario.
Editorial says individual television viewers, not government regulations, should decide how much advertising is acceptable.
Calgary is home to both winners of the 2007 Dalton Camp Award, an annual essay contest on the link between democratic values and the quality of media in Canada.
The public broadcast regulator has allowed Alliance Atlantis to split and form a separate, numbered company to hold properties – primarily its cable channels – whose sale are subject to CRTC regulation.
An overhaul of European broadcasting law has been confirmed, paving the way for looser rules on advertising breaks, product placement and cross-border broadcasts.
Trustee appointment for CanWest/Goldman Sachs takeover bid of Alliance Atlantis receives CRTC approval.
Britain's competition watchdog will carry out an inquiry into British Sky Broadcasting's controversial purchase of a significant stake in ITV.
Paul Cauchon reports that the CRTC's recent decision to stop regulating the quantity of advertising on TV poses a dilemma for Canada's broadcasters.
Columnist says media activists should organize grassroots campaigns against the CRTC to combat the power of Canada's large media conglomerates.
Richard Stursberg, executive vice-president of CBC Television, predicts increased commercial minutes on Canadian TV will drain funds from the public broadcaster as advertisers spend more money on CTV and Global.
Editorial says the CRTC made the right decision to deregulate TV advertising so market forces can dictate the ad-content mix.
The CBC and the Directors Guild of Canada say the CRTC is encouraging a freefall of spending on Canadian drama because it didn't firm up support for Canadian content in its new television policy.
Canadian media guilds express disappointment that CRTC television policy changes did not include re-imposing expenditure requirements for domestic programming.
In September 2007, broadcasters will be allowed 14 minutes of ads per hour of prime-time, up from the current 12 - by 2009, there will be no limits.
The CRTC reports that revenues for private radio hit $1.4 billion in 2006, up 5.7 per cent from 2005.
The CRTC has denied a bid by Canada's conventional television networks to charge fees to cable and satellite companies, but will remove restrictions on advertising time limits.
The CRTC to loosen some regulations on conventional television broadcasters and deny subscriber fees to local TV stations on cable and satellite.
FRIENDS says the CRTC followed its procedures when it refused to consider CTVglobemedia's offer to sell up to three CityTV stations to push through its takeover of CHUM.
Article describes competing interests in Canada's broadcast industry that will be affected by the soon-to-be released CRTC review of domestic television policy.
The federal broadcast regulator says CTVglobemedia did not follow proper process when it offered to sell up to three Citytv television stations in an attempt to push through its $1.7-billion purchase of CHUM.
Columnist says Canadian television needs more regulation, not less, to clean up "polluted" airwaves.
The Standing Senate Committee on Transport and Communications says the CRTC should regulate monthly contributions to the Canadian Television Fund and establish a dispute resolution mechanism to deal with stakeholder concerns.
In a speech to the British Columbia Association of Broadcasters, CRTC chair Konrad von Finckenstein outlined the Commission's goals, which reflect the "market forces" approach of the current federal government.
Activist group has a vision of "integrated media, two countries, and one audience."
The chairman of the CRTC says Canada's broadcast regulator will entertain "a lighter approach to regulation" as long as support for Canadian programming is upheld.
CTVglobemedia has offered to sell a Citytv station in Winnipeg and possibly two others in Calgary and Edmonton to push through its $1.7-billion purchase of CHUM Ltd.
CTVglobemedia upped the value of its benefits package and pledged more local programming in Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg, as part if the company's proposed takeover bid of CHUM.
A CRTC report shows Canadian specialty, pay, pay-per-view television and video-on-demand enjoyed a 12.4% increase in revenues in 2006.
CTVglobemedia tells the CRTC there will be no overlap of programming between its over-the-air CTV stations and the CityTV outlets it wants to purchase from CHUM.
A supportive quote from Peter Herrndorf, a current member of CBC's board of directors, has been included in CTVglobemedia's application to acquire CHUM - a deal the CBC opposes.
A CRTC ruling allowing major phone companies to charge different customers different rates will come into effect on June 1.
Article says that if the CRTC approves the CTVglobemedia $1.4-billion takeover of CHUM, the deal will require an unprecedented bending of federal rules.
CRTC commissioner calls CTVglobemedia's request to own two major TV stations in five Canadian cities a monumental exemption from longstanding CRTC broadcasting policy.
The CRTC forces CTV executives to provide assurances a merged CTVglobemedia/CHUM would not simply milk profits and stifle attempts at creative TV programming.
CTVglobemedia wants the CRTC to make an exception and allow the company to own two TV stations in a market because CHUM's CityTV stations need CTV's injection of cash to stay afloat.
Columnist observes that CRTC precedent may force CTVglobemedia to divest television channels in certain markets to lessen ownership concentration.
Columnist says that with other media mergers waiting for approval, all eyes will be on CRTC chairman Konrad von Finckenstein to observe the tone, pacing and precedent he sets during the CTVglobemedia/CHUM review.
FRIENDS questions how the unprecedented clout of a merged CTVglobemedia-CHUM will affect competition in Canada's television industry.
The CRTC chair says the government wants to move quickly toward less regulation, but if the telecommunications industry does not demonstrate is it capable of policing its own behavior, it will face consequences.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada says neither the CRTC nor Canadians have been told what CTV plans to do with 65 radio and television stations it proposes to buy from CHUM.
U.S. federal broadcast regulators tell Congress they need the same powers to protect children from violent content as they have for indecent content.
The CRTC is reviewing an application by Rogers Communications to start a pay audio service which could be used to stream music to cellphones and Internet receivers in cars.
Three separate reports from industry analysts say it is unlikely the proposed merger of XM and Sirius will be approved.
Columnist says a forthcoming U.S. report on worldwide intellectual property protection is expected to claim that Canada is rapidly emerging as a piracy haven, but that the reality is that Canada's record meets international standards.
Industry Canada's assistant deputy minister says the CRTC should set a deadline for Canadian television broadcasters to switch from analog to digital signals.
FRIENDS says if the CRTC allows CTVglobemedia to retain CHUM's CityTV stations it would violate the regulator's own policy against common ownership of two stations serving identical markets.
The Television Bureau of Canada, the agency that screens ads for private broadcasters, is at the centre of controversy over efforts to protect the public from advertising deemed inappropriate for TV.
Media companies such as Bell Canada, CBC/Radio-Canada, Rogers Communications and Apple Canada are lining up to oppose a new proposed tariff on musical works delivered via the Internet.
CRTC Chairman Konrad von Finckenstein said he has made internal and external communication a priority with recent staff appointments.
A panel of copyright judges have thrown out requests from a group of public and private broadcasters to reconsider a ruling that increases the royalties paid to record companies and artists.
Article details how Webcasters, public radio and terrestrial radio broadcasters are affected by a new U.S. music royalty structure.
Activists are urging the U.S. federal broadcast regulator to fine radio stations over "shock-jock" Don Imus' racially offensive remarks.
Hearings will examine policies governing ownership concentration for both conventional broadcasters and the specialty-channel sector.
Canada's broadcast regulator has launched a public proceeding to review issues relating to common ownership of Canadian broadcasting companies.
FRIENDS says despite the proposed deal with Rogers, it is likely the CRTC will tell CTVglobemedia to keep the A-Channels and sell CHUM's five major TV stations in Winnipeg, Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver.
FRIENDS says Canadians would be better served if Rogers owned CHUM's Citytv stations, rather than A-Channel stations, resulting in three private-sector national TV networks.
Rogers' $137.5-million deal with CTVglobemedia to buy 10 stations would make the company Canada's third-largest private-sector English-language TV owner.
Article states that new royalty structures in the U.S. may see some Web radio operations set up in Canada.
Agreement would see Rogers purchase CHUM assets - six A-Channel stations, ACCESS Alberta, CLT and SexTV - from CTVglobemedia.
FRIENDS recommends that in exchange for approving CTVglobemedia's acquisition of CHUM's radio and specialty television assets, CTVglobemedia should be required to divest the five CHUM/City stations and to retain CHUM's six A-Channel stations
A Chinese diplomat's wife says she has proof that top Chinese officials tried to thwart a TV network from being broadcast in Canada.
FRIENDS says the CRTC might order CTVglobemedia to sell Citytv stations and retain ownership of A-Channels in smaller markets as part of the takeover of CHUM.
Cartt.ca reports on the details of the recent government decision to speed up deregulation of the local telephone market.
Article says Industry Minister Maxime Bernier has pushed ahead with policy that sidesteps parliamentary process and the CRTC, and benefits the largest telephone companies.
Britain's communications regulator says Channel 4 could go bankrupt after 2012 if it does not receive financial help.
Konrad von Finckenstein responds to the Conservative government changing a CRTC decision concerning the deregulation of local phone services.
The CRTC has denied a Videotron bid to broadcast an adult content station from France, saying the station may be too racy for Canadian standards.
Heritage Minister Bev Oda defends her performance during the CTF crisis, and talks of changes needed at the CBC and CRTC in a one-on-one interview.
Michael Geist observes some traditional broadcasters and copyright holders are increasingly wary of unregulated new media services such as Internet streaming and podcasting and may be gearing up for a fresh look at Internet regulation.
Correspondent says changing technology is making the CRTC less relevant.
A CRTC report shows Canadian private broadcasters spent $688-million on foreign television programming in 2006, an increase of more than 12 per cent from the previous year.
FRIENDS questions the stewardship of the CRTC for allowing Canadian broadcasters to spend more on foreign television programming than on Canadian.
Columnist comments that the CRTC and regulation is necessary given the rapid rate of change in the communications industry.
Columnist says that a bid by a cable channel featuring Canada's multicultural reality to become part of 'basic cable' may be stymied by opposition from Cogeco, Shaw and Rogers.
An application for a new TV channel catering to the visually impaired is being opposed by Canwest Global, Rogers and Shaw because of a content deal signed with CTV.
Survey commissioned by Rogers Communications shows subscriber opposition to mandatory inclusion of new channels in their digital basic cable service and preference for pick-and-pay options.
The CRTC is set to shuffle the list of channels available to cable and satellite subscribers who buy the minimum packages offered.
The federal Conservative government says a new panel on competition policy will have a broad mandate and could trigger changes in areas such as foreign ownership regulations.
U.S. Broadcasters and online companies are challenging a copyright ruling that they say could cripple the emerging business of offering music broadcasts over the Internet.
Media insiders say a concerted effort on the part of Canada's TV industry, government, and the CRTC is needed to accelerate the take-up of high definition television.
Paul Cauchon reports from the CRTC hearing on obligatory carriage in a digital environment.
Columnist says the CRTC either caved to public pressure or saw reason - or both - and decided to postpone its hearings on media concentration until next fall.
FRIENDS says the announced CRTC review of media concentration in Canada is a good sign and shows the broadcast regulator is concerned about the question of Canadian voices.
Canada's largest union of media workers says the CRTC process to review proposed media mergers is deliberately misguided to favour media corporate bottom lines over the public interest.
The president of the National Association of Broadcasters tells the U.S. broadcast regulator to oppose the proposed merger of the nation's two satellite radio companies because Sirius/XM cannot be trusted with monopoly power.
FRIENDS notes that under new chairman, Konrad von Finckenstein, the CRTC might tighten its policies on media takeovers.
In the wake of two major amalgamations of Canadian media companies in the past year, the federal broadcasting regulator plans to look at ways to preserve a "diversity of voices" in the broadcasting system.
CRTC news release says that in light of the current wave of media consolidation the regulator will examine how to ensure the broadcasting system provides Canadians with a diversity of voices.
FRIENDS supports application of Canada One Television for a CRTC licence.
NDP Heritage Critic Charlie Angus has called for new CRTC hearings into media concentration arising from the CTV/CHUM purchase.
Alain Pineau, CCA's National Director, calls on the Heritage Minister to prolong the hearings on the proposed CTVglobemedia takeover of CHUM to ensure an honest, transparent and responsible public discussion.
Canada's largest media union calls on the CRTC to hold an open, transparent and accountable review of the CBC mandate.
FRIENDS says the CRTC is following due process, so far, with its upcoming hearings into CTVglobemedia's purchase of CHUM.
Columnist notes that viewers, unions, artists' groups and other non-industry parties have only 24 working days to submit their interventions to the CRTC on the proposed CTVglobemedia takeover of CHUM.
Hearings into the proposed purchase of CHUM by CTVglobemedia are scheduled to begin April 30 and will be chaired by the newly appointed CRTC Chair Konrad von Finckenstein.
The CRTC has announced it is prepared to revamp its policy of limiting broadcasters to ownership of only one station in a single market.
Op-Ed says the U.S. government should enact policies requiring broadcast radio stations to air original programming on digital stations, and allowing satellite companies to run local news, talk and music.
Columnist raises concerns about the lack of transparency for the newly established CRTC task force set up to study the Canadian Television Fund.
CRTC vice-chair, Richard French, says he will be resigning his position before the Federal Accountability Act disallows companies he owns from receiving government contracts.
CRTC chair, Konrad von Finckenstein spoke of the uneasy relationship between new media and the Broadcasting Act at a Canadian film, TV and new media producers conference.
New CRTC Chair Konrad von Finckenstein says he plans to resolve the crisis with Canadian Television Fund through co-operation, not confrontation.
Antitrust experts are saying Sirius and XM Satellite Radio will have trouble persuading the U.S. Justice Department to approve their merger because it will create a monopoly.
Some media watchers are saying that the CRTC is conducting a review of the Canadian Television Fund because the Harper government is trying to distance itself from a controversial subject.
The marriage of XM and Sirius is being touted as a merger of equals in the U.S., but in Canada, Sirius - which is privately owned by the CBC, Standard Broadcasting and its U.S. parent - sees itself as the most valuable piece of the puzzle.
The CRTC has announced that a task force will review how the $250-million Canadian Television Fund operates.
Columnist says that a merger of Sirius Canada and XM Canada would face intense regulatory scrutiny.
Investors and analysts are worried that U.S. antitrust regulators will block the proposed merger between Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio.
Columnist says the merger of XM and Sirius in the U.S. would leave little option but consolidation for XM Canada and Sirius Canada.
Article says that CanWest's track record in Australia demonstrates the company is willing to flaunt national broadcast policies and keep its intentions hidden.
Only Imagine Inc.'s application to the CRTC to sell Canadian ads on cable feeds of popular U.S. channels such as CNN, A&E and TBS has run into opposition from the cable industry.
Article says Konrad von Finckenstein has stamped his personality on the CRTC with a warning to cable companies that the regulator would rewrite the rules to ensure payments to the Canadian Television Fund resume.
Vidéotron Ltée owner Quebecor Media says it is prepared to resume payments to the Canadian Television Fund after the CRTC's new chief threatened to rewrite the licences of the country's cable companies.
Heritage Minister Bev Oda says she will write to Shaw Communications and Vidéotron and ask them to resume their payments to the Canadian Television Fund.
The head of the CRTC says the broadcast regulator will play a role in finding a resolution to the dispute between Shaw/Vidéotron and the Canadian Television Fund.
The CRTC has clarified its position on TV broadcasting to mobile devices, formally exempting most mobile TV services from licensing requirements.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada tells the new CRTC Chair to hold public hearings concerning concentration of ownership in Canada's broadcast media.
Columnist says the Canadian Television Fund plans to ask the CRTC to play a stronger role in urging Shaw and Vidéotron to honour their commitments to Canadian programming.
Heritage Minister Beverley Oda passes the buck to the CRTC on Big Cable's withdrawal from the Canadian Television Fund
Heritage Minister Bev Oda calls on the CRTC to deal with Shaw and Vidéotron's withdrawal from funding of the Canadian Television Fund.
Canadian broadcaster High Fidelity HDTV has secured regulatory approval for seven homegrown high-definition channels.
Media activist says Canadian cable subscribers may have been overcharged for over a decade.
Richard French, the CRTC's vice-chairman of telecommunications, told a parliamentary committee that Industry Minister Maxime Bernier's direct involvement in the telecommunications sector is without precedent in the past few decades.
Article reports that the CRTC previously approved a small Newfoundland cable firm's privatization with a U.S. backer, suggesting a potential precedent for CanWest’s bid for Alliance.
Article highlights a CRTC regulation that states cable companies must provide a community channel that encourages access, training and meaningful volunteer opportunities, and that up to 50% of airtime must be made available for independently produced community programs.
Shaw Communications has applied to the CRTC for permission to make USA Network available to Canadian subscribers.
Columnist suggests the CRTC announced that Rogers Cable could market nine Chinese state TV channels in Canada on the last working day before Christmas to avoid scrutiny and criticism.
Senate Democrats are pressuring FCC commissioners to set programming requirements for television broadcasters as part of the industry's mandate to operate in the public interest.
A CRTC loophole is allowing Videotron and Star Choice high-definition subscribers to see U.S. TV spots while watching the Super Bowl.
CARTT says that telecom insiders are speculating that the new CRTC chairman is coming in with a mandate of change.
Columnist says industry executives are expecting Konrad von Finckenstein will bring a tough, hands-on administrative style to his new role as head of Canada's broadcast and telecom regulator.
Columnist says that Konrad von Finckenstein, the new CRTC chairman, has strong relationships with people at the highest levels of Stephen Harper's government.
The appointment of Konrad von Finckenstein as chairman of the CRTC has drawn praise from industry insiders that consider him a logical choice by the federal government.
Columnist notes that new CRTC chairman Konrad von Finckenstein's track record as the head of Canada's Competition Bureau may not bode well for the takeover of CHUM by CTVglobemedia, and the deal between Canwest/Goldman Sachs and Alliance Atlantis.
Heritage Minister Bev Oda has named Federal Court Judge Konrad von Finckenstein, former commissioner of the Competition Bureau, as the new chairman of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission.
The Canadian Television Fund has retained legal counsel and is concerned several projects could be shelved if the CRTC doesn't step in to enforce the payments from Shaw Communications and Vidéotron Ltée.
The performers' union tells the Canadian Film and Television Production Association that, instead of fighting each other in court, they should be working together on issues such as media concentration and Shaw Communications' pullout from the Canadian Television Fund.
Challenging issues are looming that need to be addressed by Canada’s broadcast and telecom regulator.
The U.K. media regulator has broadly approved plans for the BBC to launch its broadband on-demand platform, the BBC iPlayer.
FRIENDS expects the ownership structure in the CanWest/Alliance Atlantis deal to be challenged by the CRTC under Canadian regulations limiting foreign ownership of media companies to 47%.
CRTC taxation on regulated television assets could bump the Alliance Atlantis purchase price by $125 million to $150 million.
Stock prices of Sirius and XM Satellite Radio took a blow after the U.S. regulator indicated that a merger between the two companies would likely be blocked.
CARTT says deregulation of the local phone market in major urban centres makes sense, but special consideration should be given to rural markets served by small operators.
Columnist says the Harper government will attempt to fill as many as seven seats on the thirteen-member Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission to reshape the regulator to take a more market-oriented view.
The CRTC has not imposed the same content restrictions on Al-Arabiya as it did on al-Jazeera, clearing the way for the Dubai-based satellite TV channel to be licensed for carriage in Canada.
New York investment bank Goldman Sachs plans to invite some of Canada's biggest pension funds into the Alliance Atlantis purchase in an attempt to "Canadianize the deal".
The CRTC will need to uncover who has control in the CanWest/Goldman Sachs joint venture to determine whether the Alliance Atlantis purchase meets foreign ownership rules.
$2.3 billion dollar deal will, if finalized, give CanWest access to 13 specialty channels including Showcase and Food Network Canada.
CARTT says the competitive imbalance caused by the CTVglobemedia/CHUM merger may make it unlikely that the CRTC will stop the CanWest/Goldman Sachs purchase of Alliance Atlantis.
FRIENDS says that possible CRTC intervention into the CanWest/Goldman Sachs purchase of Alliance Atlantis may cause concern for investors.
Michel Arpin, CRTC's vice-chairman of broadcasting, has been chosen to serve as interim chairman of the federal broadcast and telecom industry regulator.
Rogers Communications to market "Chinese Great Wall" TV package in Canada.
Critics say that nine new Chinese-language television stations in Canada will be propaganda tools for the Chinese government.
Columnist predicts that media concentration, sports broadcasting rights and CRTC reform will be among the major issues in the media industry for 2007.
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez's decision not to renew the broadcast license of a television station often critical of his government has fueled debate over whether he is stifling dissent.
