Nov 12, 2020   SOURCE: PR NewsWire

Canadians invited to share their views on AM and FM radio

CRTC launches public consultation on its commercial radio policy

OTTAWA, ON and GATINEAU, QC, Nov. 12, 2020 /CNW/ - The CRTC is keen to hear from a wide range of Canadians about their radio listening habits, behaviours and views as part of its review of commercial radio.

This information will help the CRTC better understand how the radio industry can meet the needs and interests of Canadians in both official languages. It will also help the CRTC determine how best to update its regulations to ensure Canada's commercial radio industry remains competitive in a digital environment.

Canadians are encouraged to share their opinions by completing an online survey by November 26, 2020.

Canadians can also submit their comments by February 1, 2021, using one of the following methods:

    --  filling out the online form
    --  writing to the Secretary General, CRTC, Ottawa, Ontario K1A ON2, or
    --  sending a fax to 819-994-0218.

All submissions will form part of this proceeding and will be added to the public record.

Quotes

"Radio is an important source of news, information and entertainment for Canadians. They spend close to 15 hours per week tuning in to traditional radio, as well as listening to a multitude of digital platforms. As technology evolves, we invite Canadians to tell us about their expectations and experiences regarding commercial radio stations. This will help us ensure that their needs are reflected in the programming, as well as support the work of Canadian artists and broadcasters."

Ian Scott, Chairperson and CEO of the CRTC

Quick facts

    --  The review of commercial radio follows the Commission's report titled
        Harnessing Change: The Future of Programming Distribution in Canada,
        which highlighted trends in Canadians' consumption of audiovisual
        content. The report found that an increasing number of Canadians are now
        discovering audio content on digital platforms.
    --  In addition to an open online survey, the CRTC has conducted the same
        survey with a sample of Canadians who are statistically representative
        of the population.
    --  The information gathered through this public consultation will help the
        Commission assess the relevance and effectiveness of the rules currently
        governing commercial radio in Canada, and determine the specific issues
        to be addressed in the new policy.
    --  This proceeding will also include the record from the review of
        French-language vocal music that was initiated in 2015.
    --  Canada's commercial radio sector includes all AM and FM radio stations,
        except those owned and operated by the CBC/Radio-Canada or licensed as
        campus, community, Indigenous or ethnic stations.

Associated Links

    --  Share your views and ideas on your radio listening habits, needs and
        interests
    --  Broadcasting Notice of Consultation CRTC 2020-374 - Call for comments -
        Commercial radio policy framework review
    --  Broadcasting Notice of Proceeding CRTC 2020-25 - Commercial radio policy
        framework review
    --  2019-2020 Departmental Plan
    --  Harnessing Change: The Future of Programming Distribution in Canada
    --  Broadcasting Notice of Consultation CRTC 2015-318 - Review of the
        regulatory framework for French-language vocal music applicable to the
        French-language commercial radio sector
    --  Broadcasting Public Notice CRTC 2006-158 - Commercial Radio Policy 2006

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SOURCE Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission