Telco TV, an association representing the
“The so-called “fee for carriage” proposals of broadcasters are nothing more than a subsidy designed to insulate them from changes in the market,” said Telco TV executive director Ann Mainville-Neeson. “We are all facing changes in technology and consumer behaviour and we all must adapt. Broadcasters like CTV and Global are financially strong and capable of taking
on the challenges of the expanding media environment. These large media conglomerates do not need a new subsidy.”
Adding together the money requested from all the private broadcasters, as well as the public broadcasters like the CBC, the additional levy could be significant for Canadian television subscribers, as much as $5 per month.
“CTV, Global and other broadcasters, like the rest of the broadcasting industry, have to develop creative ways to retain viewers and develop new
audiences in this environment. This proposed subsidy will only create a disincentive to change that will ultimately hurt the entire industry,” said
Mainville-Neeson. “If the Government determines that there is a need to fund Canadian programming, the monies currently collected from broadcasters in the
form of licence fees should be used for that purpose. To fund the transition to high definition television, the Government could use the proceeds from a future spectrum auction following the retirement of analog television distribution.”
The Telco TV Association of Canada represents the broadcasting interests of leading western Canadian telecommunications companies. Members include MTS
Allstream, SaskTel and TELUS.
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