CRTC's Ongoing Dialogue on the Future of Online Streaming in Canada
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is currently holding its fourth session focused on the Online Streaming Act. On the first day, Bell shared its insights regarding how online streaming platforms should be regulated and how they create content in Canada.
Vicky Eatrides, who serves as chairperson and CEO of the CRTC, emphasized that a key goal of this hearing is to develop a sustainable model that can evolve with changing times. This includes enhancing the visibility of both Canadian and Indigenous content while preparing for future challenges faced by creators in Canada. She pointed out that fostering fair business practices among producers, distributors, and broadcasters is essential for a healthy industry. Her remarks also highlighted shifting power dynamics between major players like Bell Media and international giants such as YouTube and Spotify.
While this article primarily focuses on Bell's proposals, it's important to keep an eye on responses from other tech leaders like Apple, Google, and Spotify as they react to potential new regulations.
The Transition Towards Streaming Services
Bell's presentation revealed a significant shift in viewer habits. “In 2019, Canadians subscribing to streaming services outnumbered those sticking with traditional broadcasting,” stated Steve Cummings, Vice President of Content Distribution at Bell. His mention of broadcasting distribution undertakings (BDUs) reflects concerns even among large cable companies about the viability of conventional television.
Despite these changes in viewing patterns, Bell remains hopeful about its position within this evolving media landscape. Mark Graham, Senior Vice President for Legal and Regulatory Affairs at Bell remarked confidently: “We don't see a bleak future for broadcasting regulations in Canada. Just last month we viewed this as an opportunity rather than a challenge. We are committed to investing our creativity and resources into preparing for what lies ahead; however, we need regulations that align with our vision.”
Bell representatives argued against imposing identical requirements on foreign platforms regarding Canadian content obligations compared to local firms. They expressed concern that if major players like Netflix or Prime Video were subjected to similar rules as theirs-this could lead to talent leaving Canada which would weaken their competitive standing.
Updating Regulations for Today's Digital Landscape
Bell believes it's time to rethink certain rules affecting Canadian broadcasters since they now compete against global online services operating under fewer restrictions than before. These existing regulations were crafted during an era when Canada's media environment was more insulated from outside influences; thus making it harder for local companies today.
The essence of their argument suggests relaxing some rules could allow all players involved more freedom to maximize profits while producing quality content tailored toward Canadian audiences' needs. When asked by one commissioner whether they think CRTC should solely depend on broadcasters meeting Canadian content requirements without oversight-Bell clarified their support remains strong but advocates expanding focus towards broader commercial interests including wholesale reselling options too.
A Proposal for Collaborative Funding
The conversation also explored moving towards an entirely digital broadcasting framework where funding challenges faced by specific networks required across all Canadian broadcasters would be addressed effectively through collaboration among media entities involved together instead individually competing against each other over limited resources available today!
Referring specifically here again back again ‘9(1)(1)(h)' channels-which include well-known organizations such APTN CBC News CPAC etc.-they proposed establishing collective funds contributed by all parties involved so these channels can receive necessary financial backing needed thrive successfully! Since mandated accessibility exists already via CRTC guidelines-it could simplify access online without additional costs incurred thereby ensuring everyone has stake promoting them collectively funded efforts!
Moreover-they stressed importance discoverability concerning homegrown productions wanting ensure visibility amongst various streaming platforms which may not prioritize showcasing them adequately compared others available options present! By advocating dedicated spaces within user interfaces designed specifically highlight CanCon-they believe will help connect productions reaching intended audiences effectively!
Questions arose surrounding support independent broadcasters alongside designated channels too-but no clear solutions emerged yet although suggestions made requiring online streamers include certain number independent media offerings available alongside established ones already recognized under current guidelines set forth previously mentioned earlier above making tackling issue complex indeed!
Supportive measures aimed at enhancing visibility around local talent continue driving discussions forward shaping future landscape entertainment industry overall!
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