After a call for input from the CRTC, as well as an active media campaign by Canadian broadcasters and broadcast distribution undertakings (BDUs), AMPIA went on the record this week with the following submission to the Commission.
A CRTC hearing, scheduled for December, resulted from a request by the federal government for the government to “prepare a report on the implications and advisability of implementing a compensation regime for the value of local television signals.” AMPIA’s broadcast committee heard input from some of the Association’s broadcaster members, and decided to make the following comment to the CRTC.
The committee is also preparing to make a presentation to the CRTC in late November on a number of issues being examined by the Commission around the question of conventional television licences. All AMPIA members are welcome to contribute to the discussion, and can find the background documents on the CRTC website through reference number CRTC 2009-411.
Robert A. Morin November 2, 2009
Secretary General
Canadian Radio-Television and
Telecommunications Commission
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0N2
Re: Broadcasting Notice of Consultation CRTC 2009-614
Dear Mr. Morin,
The Alberta Motion Picture Industries Association (AMPIA) welcomes the opportunity to comment on the above noted proceeding.
AMPIA represents the interests of individuals and companies involved in all aspects of film and television by supporting the creation of an environment in which Alberta producers can create, develop and produce screen-based content that reflects Alberta to Albertans, the rest of Canada and the world.
Since AMPIA’s members include not only independent producers, but also broadcasters and broadcast distribution undertakings (BDUs) we have watched the current dispute between these partners in the television system with interest.
Ultimately, the entire Canadian system needs stability if Canadians in general and Albertans in particular are to be able to create and consume information, stories and entertainment that reflect our local interests and diverse Canadian realities.
Given that two primary players in the system seem to be at an impasse in their current dispute, it would appear that the CRTC could play an invaluable role to facilitate bringing these players to the table to negotiate a sustainable solution.
Whatever the final outcome, we urge the CRTC to continue its support of a broadcasting system that engages a diverse range of independent production voices working effectively in all regions of Canada. Any solution for Canada’s broadcasters and BDUs cannot be at the expense of Canadian programming expenditures.
Sincerely,
Jane Bisbee
Interim Executive Director
AMPIA
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