OTTAWA, May 31, 2018 – The CMPA congratulates the CRTC on the release of its in-depth report on the Future of Programming Distribution released today.

The CMPA strongly supports the key theme that all players who benefit from Canada’s broadcasting system must also contribute to it. The success of our domestic production industry was built on this core philosophy.

The CRTC recognizes the importance of high-quality Canadian programming to Canadians. “As Canadian viewing habits shift from the television set to the smart phone, it is imperative that our support systems for Canadian content are modernized”, said CMPA Board Chair Scott Garvie. “By recognizing internet service providers (ISPs) and online television services such as Netflix as important elements of the system, the CRTC is helping to ensure the continued production and distribution of this great content.”

The growth of online television services provide an opportunity for more stories to be told, but only if the regulatory system keeps pace with changing technology. “The ways Canadians consume content is changing, and that’s a great thing,” said Erin Finlay, the CMPA’s Chief Legal Officer. “With this new approach, everyone must contribute and everyone in the system has the opportunity to thrive.”

The group that represents Canadian independent producers also applauded the CRTC’s commitment to ensure the modernization of the regulatory system did not result in increased costs to Canadian audiences. This is something that the CMPA has long called upon in its submissions to the regulator and government.

At the same time, the CMPA cautioned against suggestions that Canada’s tax credit and funding system might be opened to foreign-controlled or vertically integrated companies that own both the broadcasters and ISPs. “All of this is really about ensuring Canadians have access to a wide variety of high-quality Canadian content that reflects the diversity of voices that make up our country,” said Finlay.

The CMPA looks forward to continuing these discussions with the government and the CRTC as the review process unfolds.

ABOUT THE CMPA
The Canadian Media Producers Association is the national advocacy organization for independent producers, representing hundreds of companies engaged in the development, production and distribution of English-language content made for television, cinema and digital media channels. We work to promote the continued success of the Canadian production sector and to ensure a bright future for the diverse content made by our members for both domestic and international audiences. cmpa.ca

For more information:

Kyle O’Byrne
Manager, Media Relations & Communications
Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA)
kyle.obyrne@cmpa.ca