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Decision CRTC 2001-458
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Ottawa, 2 August 2001
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Licence renewals for the television stations controlled by Global
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The Commission renews the licences for the television stations
controlled by Global for a seven year term. The licence renewal
applications for these stations were considered at the 17 April 2001
public hearing held in the National Capital Region. A list of conditions
of licence common to all stations controlled by Global is set out in
Appendix 2 to this decision.
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Introduction
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1. |
In Public Notice CRTC 1999-97,
the Commission set out its new Television Policy, arrived at after
extensive consultation with the industry, the public, and other
stakeholders. One of the basic tenets of the new policy was that the
renewal of all the conventional television licences held or controlled by
a group would be considered by the Commission at the same time. A group
was defined as more than one conventional television station owned or
controlled by the same person or entity.
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2. |
In implementing this change, the Commission stated that it wished to
consider the group’s corporate strategy and the method of implementing
the strategy on each of the group’s individual stations, when renewing
the licences of those stations. The Commission also stated that
commitments made by a group would be applied to individual stations
within the group as either conditions of licence or expectations.
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3. |
This approach reduces the administrative and cost burden for both
broadcasters and the Commission, and provides an opportunity to make a
strategic assessment of the contribution of all aspects of a licensee’s
operations to the broadcasting system.
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4. |
The public hearing held in April 2001, at which the licence renewals
of all of the Global conventional television stations were heard, is the
first time the Commission has simultaneously dealt with renewals of all
of the television licences of one of the largest private multi-station
ownership groups. Consistent with the approach set out in the Television
Policy, the Commission has today published this decision as well as
Decisions CRTC 2001-458-1 to 458-14, which renew the licences for all
television stations controlled by Global across Canada for seven years.
Conditions of each licence that are common to all Global stations are set
out in Appendix 2 to this decision, while those that are unique to
particular stations are set out in the individual decisions addressing
particular stations.
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5. |
The Commission recognizes that the licences of conventional
broadcasting undertakings which are before it had varying expiry dates.
In the Television Policy, the Commission stated its intention of
generally considering for renewal all of the licences for conventional
undertakings held by a multi-station group at the same time. In part, the
Commission's purpose in establishing such a process was to reduce the
administrative and regulatory burden on the licensees while increasing
the efficiency of the licence renewal process. In light of these
objectives, the Commission notes its appreciation of the actions of
Global in bringing in some of their conventional licences early so that
the new licence term for all of these conventional licensees will run
from 1 September 2001 to 31 August 2008. |
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Global’s structure
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6. |
In the Television Policy, the Commission noted that the Canadian
broadcasting industry had undergone ownership consolidation, which
resulted in efficiencies and synergies that would provide increased
investment in Canadian programming and the greater likelihood of the
export of that programming. The Commission also stated its expectation
that the consolidation of broadcasting, production and communications
companies would continue, to the benefit of Canadian audiences, the
broadcasting system and the public interest.
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Broadcast holdings
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7. |
CanWest Global Communications Corporation is a leading diversified
Canadian media company with an international presence.
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8. |
Through its subsidiaries Global Communications Limited, CanWest
Television Inc. and Global Television Network Quebec (Limited
Partnership), collectively known throughout this decision as
"Global", it currently owns or controls a total of sixteen
television stations across Canada, excluding CKVU-TV Vancouver and
CFCF-TV Montréal, whose assets are currently held in trust pending
approval of their sale. The Commission has received an application by
CHUM Limited to purchase CKVU-TV and will consider it shortly. The
Commission is currently considering an application by CTV to purchase
CFCF-TV (see Public Notice CRTC 2001-77).
Eleven of the sixteen stations broadcast Global’s main programming
schedule. Two stations, CHCH-TV Hamilton and CHEK-TV Victoria, were among
those television stations formerly owned by WIC Western International
Communications that were acquired by Global in 2000 (Decision CRTC 2000-221).
These stations offer a program schedule that is different from that of
other Global stations. Global also operates CHBC-TV Kelowna and CKRD-TV
Red Deer, two stations affiliated to the CBC English-language television
network. Finally, Global recently acquired CJNT-TV, a multilingual
station in Montréal.
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9. |
Global is also active in the specialty services industry. In 1997, it
launched its first specialty service, known as Global Prime, a national
service targeted to an audience over 50 years of age. Global also owns a
50% interest in ROBTv, a business news specialty channel, but those
shares have been placed in trust following a direction by the Bureau of
Competition. It is anticipated that an application to transfer control
(directly or indirectly) of ROBTv to Bell Globemedia Publishing Inc. will
be filed shortly. In late 2000, the Commission approved Global’s
applications for two new Category 1 and 27 new Category 2 digital
specialty television services.
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Program production
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10. |
In 1998, Global acquired Fireworks Entertainment Inc., which has since
become one of Canada’s leading production and distribution companies.
Global has moved to expand its existing library and to build strategic
alliances with other producers and distributors around the world. Through
its international entertainment division based in the United Kingdom,
Global will distribute programs world-wide, offering Canadian producers
access to additional audiences for their creative works.
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Newspapers and new media
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11. |
In August 2000, Global purchased from Hollinger Inc. 14 major daily
Canadian newspapers, a 50% interest in The National Post, a
national daily newspaper, and 126 daily and weekly newspapers in smaller
Canadian communities. In addition, Global also acquired newspaper
websites and Internet portals across Canada.
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International interests
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12. |
Global’s interests outside of Canada include a U.S. distributor of
full-length feature films, a U.S. company that develops websites for
local television stations, and a specialized content provider, also in
the U.S. Outside of North America, Global owns a national television
network in Australia, two private commercial television operations and
one radio network in New Zealand, and a national television network in
Ireland.
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Resulting synergies
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13. |
In Canada, Global considers that owning stations across the country
enables it, in some instances, to use the revenues from its more
profitable stations to subsidize those that are less profitable. Thus all
stations can fulfil their local programming commitments even if some are
in a loss position. The licensee also noted that its stations benefit
substantially through the sharing of programming, promotion services,
national and international services, management services, payroll,
accounting and personnel services.
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14. |
Global considers that its links with The National Post and
local papers will help it to free up journalistic resources to
cover additional stories and to undertake more investigative reporting.
For example, in some instances, a newspaper and a television station
could pool resources to cover routine news stories such as news
conferences so that more reporters would be available to cover additional
stories. Issues and implications related to the cross-ownership of
television stations and newspapers are explored later in this decision.
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Priority programming
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15. |
In the Television Policy, the Commission redefined the concept of
"under-represented programming" (drama, music and variety
programs) to also include long-form documentaries, regionally-produced
programs and entertainment magazine programs. At the same time, it
renamed programming from under-represented categories as "priority
programming." Also as part of the Television Policy, the Commission
required major broadcasters to offer as a minimum in each broadcast year,
an average of eight hours per week of priority programming during peak
time, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. In various decisions issued on 6 July 2000, the
Commission imposed conditions of licence to this effect on all Global
stations except CIFG-TV Prince George.
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16. |
As part of the licence renewal process, the Commission wished to
examine the programming strategies proposed by Global for peak time
priority programming, and whether those strategies demonstrated an
appropriate commitment to high quality Canadian programming.
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17. |
In its application, Global stated that its peak time Canadian
programming targets the 18-49 age group, and the priority programming for
the current year is predominantly made up of series drama, supplemented
by a mix of documentary series and movies of the week. Global stated
further that it will continue to concentrate on dramatic series, but not
eliminate the possibility of pursuing other forms of programming as well.
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18. |
Global’s stations in Hamilton (CHCH-TV) and Victoria (CHEK-TV) will
provide separate and distinct Canadian programming designed to complement
the main service by targeting a slightly older demographic of ages 25-54,
as well as family audiences. This programming will be a mix of general
viewing programs, including dramas, movies of the week, event television,
talk shows and an entertainment magazine show. Approximately 60% of the
proposed priority programming will be drama.
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19. |
Global’s current scheduling of priority programming is reasonably
evenly distributed throughout the week, with Canadian shows on every
evening except Friday. When questioned about its scheduling practices,
Global stated that spreading its Canadian offerings across the week helps
attract audiences since the shows benefit from the lead-in of more
highly-rated programs. Global also noted that there were opportunities to
gain audiences on high-viewing nights when foreign programs are repeated,
providing opportunities for Canadian shows to attract more viewers.
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20. |
The Commission notes that the first principle set out in the
Television Policy is to "ensure quality Canadian programs at times
when Canadians are watching." The Commission recognizes that
developing a successful television programming schedule is a complex art,
and that licensees must take many factors into account when creating one.
However, it wishes to ensure that Canadian programs are available when
large numbers of Canadians could be watching, both on a weekly and on a
seasonal basis. It therefore intends to monitor both Global’s
scheduling practices for priority programs and the audience levels that
such programs obtain over the upcoming licence term in order to ensure
that the goals of the Television Policy are achieved. |
21. |
Some interveners requested that the Commission reinstate expenditure
requirements to ensure the production of high-quality Canadian programs
and support for the independent production sector. Other groups called
for the revision or elimination of the 125% credit for dramas attaining
between 6 and 9 points while yet others recommended that the Commission
require that at least 70% of all priority programming be drama. In
addition, the Canadian Film and Television Production Association (CFTPA)
suggested that, in order to ensure that Canadian priority programs are
available year-round, and, to prevent the clustering of Canadian programs
during low-viewing summer months, the Commission could require compliance
in every six-month period.
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22. |
A number of interveners including the Alliance of Canadian Cinema,
Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA), The Writers Guild of Canada, and
the Directors Guild of Canada, called for an increase in the hours per
week of priority programming. These groups noted that further
consolidation of the major broadcast groups took place following the
publication of the Television Policy, and considered that Global now has
the resources to do more than the minimum eight hours per week required
by that policy.
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23. |
The Commission is satisfied that the priority programming proposed by
Global consists of a reasonable balance of programming genres, with an
emphasis on drama. In the Commission’s view, it is premature to make
any substantive alterations to the Television Policy, a policy that has
only been in place for a year. The Commission will be monitoring and
evaluating all aspects of this policy over the next several years.
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24. |
The Commission has decided, therefore, to reimpose on the licence of
each station, a condition of licence that requires the licensee to
broadcast in each week, as a minimum in each broadcast year, an average
of 8 hours of Canadian programs in the priority program categories
between the hours 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. The Commission will continue to
monitor Global’s performance with respect to the provision of priority
programming, and expects that each station’s schedule will
ensure a reasonable distribution of priority programming both throughout
the broadcast week and the broadcast year.
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Local reflection
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25. |
The Commission's Television Policy requires licensees to demonstrate
how they will "meet the demands and reflect the particular concerns
of their local audiences, whether through local news or other local
programming."
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26. |
As part of the renewal process, Global made a commitment to adhere to
the same minimum levels of local programming on each of its stations as
it had been recently obligated to provide in the context of its purchase
of the WIC stations (Decision CRTC 2000-221).
Levels vary from station to station, and commitments include a mix of
news programming and other types of more specialized local programming.
In the context of the proceeding, Global further set out measures to
restore a strong local programming orientation to CHCH-TV Hamilton and
CHEK-TV Victoria. Conditions of licence related to these initiatives are
set out in the individual licence renewal decisions for CHCH-TV and
CHEK-TV. Global explained its approach to local programming as follows:
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Throughout the next licence term, we will continue to provide local
audiences with programming that is timely and relevant to them through
our news and information programming. At the same time, we remain
committed to serving special community needs through other non-news
programming, whether it is a regularly scheduled program in certain
markets or in the form of special events coverage, issues-based
documentaries or other forms of local reflection.
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27. |
Global cited numerous examples of local programs other than newscasts
that its stations produce and broadcast. For example, a program called The
Leading Edge that deals with entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada is
broadcast in the Maritimes. CIII-TV airs Focus Ontario, a weekly
program on provincial affairs. In Alberta, Global broadcasts Agri-business
Report and Commodity Future which address matters of
particular interest to the agricultural community around Lethbridge. As
well, information of general community interest is aired during Global’s
regular news and information programs such as This Morning Live in
Quebec, CH Morning Live in Hamilton and Okanagan Now in
Kelowna.
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28. |
Most of the stations currently broadcast more local programming than
their commitment in this regard. Global opposed the imposition of its
current levels of local programming as conditions of each licence. In
support of this position, Global referred to the flexibility envisioned
by the Television Policy, as well as the business realities of a
constantly evolving broadcasting environment.
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29. |
The Commission notes that there is some evidence that the local
reflection role traditionally played by conventional television is being
supplemented by other media, such as cable community channels as well as
the Internet. In view of these developments and the licensee's practice
of including material of general local interest in newscasts, the
Commission accepts and notes Global’s commitments for local programming
on all Global stations, except for CIII-TV, as noted below. The
Commission also notes, however, that some markets in Canada could be
better served with local non-news programming in the information and
entertainment categories (2,7,8 and 9). The Commission therefore
encourages Global to broadcast regular local non-news programming in
those categories, on all of its major stations.
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Regional news on CIII-TV
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30. |
At the hearing, Global confirmed that CIII-TV, a station that serves
an audience across Ontario, was broadcasting an average of 13 hours per
week of regional news. This level is below the 17.5 hours per week of
regional news to which the licensee committed for the current term of
licence. |
31. |
Global indicated that the shortfall resulted from a decision to
replace its noon newscast, which had low ratings, first with a lifestyles
magazine program and later with an hour-long interview program. Further,
Global noted that it would also broadcast a national newscast from
Vancouver each evening which would replace a portion of its evening
regional newscast. For the upcoming licence term, Global proposed to
broadcast 15.5 hours of regional news. |
32. |
The Commission considers that 15.5 hours of regional news is an
appropriate commitment for CIII-TV, given that it plans to supplement
regional news coverage with a national newscast from Vancouver during the
upcoming licence term. The Commission is concerned about CIII-TV’s
failure to fulfil its previous commitment and considers it essential for
Global to fulfil the commitment for regional news it has made for the new
licence term. The Commission therefore is imposing a condition of
licence on CIII-TV that reflects its commitment to regional news.
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Independent production
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33. |
Section 3(1)(i)(v) of the Broadcasting Act (the Act)
states that the programming provided by the Canadian broadcasting system
should include a significant contribution from the Canadian independent
production sector. The Commission considers that television broadcasters
have an essential role to play in the development and continued health of
the Canadian independent production industry.
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34. |
Further, the Commission notes that Section 3(1)(i)(ii) of the
Act specifies that programming should, among other things, be drawn from
regional sources. The Commission considers, therefore, that broadcasters
have a responsibility to encourage regional production and to support
such production at a level that is commensurate with their presence in
the community. In this section of this decision, the Commission deals
with two issues related to independent production that were explored at
the hearing. The first is the issue of access to Global’s program
schedule by producers who are not affiliated to the licensee. The second
is the broadcast of independently-produced programming that reflects the
regions that particular stations serve. |
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Access for unaffiliated production companies
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35. |
In the Television Policy, the Commission indicated that, where a
broadcasting licensee owns or has acquired a production company, either
in whole or in part, it would expect the licensee to address the issues
arising from vertical integration at the time of licence renewal. The
Commission’s concern in such situations is to ensure that production
companies that are unaffiliated to the licensee have reasonable access to
the licensee’s programming schedule. Affiliated production companies
are considered by the Commission to be those in which a licensee, and any
company related to the licensee own, in aggregate a 30% or greater equity
interest. Global has such ownership interests in a number of production
companies, including Fireworks Entertainment, Apple Box Productions and
CanWest Studios. |
36. |
In its application, Global did not propose any safeguard respecting
access for independent producers to its schedules, indicating that its
policy was to provide the best programs regardless of who produced them.
It noted that Fireworks Entertainment will produce two hours per week, or
25% of the priority programming that will be broadcast on Global system
stations during the fall 2001 television season. |
37. |
At the hearing, the Commission explored this issue further, asking the
applicant to comment on the possible imposition of conditions of licence
that would: |
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· ensure that a certain amount of Canadian priority programs
broadcast by the licensee is produced by unaffiliated production
companies;
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· guarantee access, at some determined level, by unaffiliated
producers to the time period between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.
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38. |
Global indicated that it was prepared to offer up to 50% of its hours
of programming in the drama category to independent producers. However,
it indicated that it was opposed to conditions of licence with respect to
access to its schedule by independent producers. |
39. |
Interveners who addressed the issue all focused on the level of access
that independent producers should have to the licensee’s prime time
schedule. The CFTPA suggested that at least 75% of priority programming
broadcast by the licensee should come from non-affiliated production
companies. The Alberta Motion Pictures Industry Association (AMPIA)
suggested a level of 95%, the Directors Guild of Canada proposed 90%, the
Independent Film and Video Alliance proposed a level of 75%, and the
Writers Guild of Canada recommended 90%. |
40. |
No intervener made a specific recommendation with respect to the level
of access by unaffiliated producers to the time period between 6 a.m. and
7 p.m. The CFTPA indicated that a flexible approach would be best for
this time period. The Commission concurs that it is not necessary to
impose any condition of licence or expectation with respect to the time
period between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. |
41. |
The Commission also considers that, given the relatively low level of
priority programming produced by affiliated production companies that is
broadcast by Global currently, as well as the limited amount of such
programming proposed for the Fall 2001 programming schedule, significant
immediate concerns in this area do not arise. However, it is concerned
that in the absence of any safeguard or expectation, the circumstances
could change substantially over the licence term, especially if the
licensee were to acquire other major production houses or to
significantly increase the amount of programming produced by its existing
affiliated companies. The amount of priority programming in relation to
the total schedule is relatively small. However, the budgets for these
programs are high, so programming decisions made by a major licensee in
this area can have a huge impact on the Canadian independent production
sector. |
42. |
Therefore, the Commission expects the licensee to ensure that
at least 75% of all Canadian priority programming broadcast by the
licensee on average over the broadcast year is produced by independent
production companies. For the purpose of this expectation, an independent
production company is defined as a production company in which the
licensee, and any company related to the licensee, owns or controls,
directly or indirectly, in aggregate, less than 30% of the equity.
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Regional independent production
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43. |
The Commission is of the opinion that Global, as a national
broadcaster, has a critical role to play in ensuring that all regions of
the country are reflected in its programming. In the production of drama,
variety and long-form documentary programs, Global relies on independent
producers. The production industry is more mature in some parts of the
country than in others. It is important that Global make a conscious
effort to develop Canadian talent through the licensing and broadcast of
programming from all parts of Canada.
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44. |
The Commission considers that program development expenditures are the
cornerstore of the development of creative talent for television
producers. As such, those expenditures have been characterized as the
research and development of the broadcast industry's drama and long-form
documentary production activities. The Commission was therefore
encouraged by Global's commitment for ongoing program development
expenditures as well as its commitment made at the hearing, to obtain
programs from independent producers across Canada. |
45. |
Global’s primary vehicle for regional production to be broadcast
across Canada will be a new documentary series entitled Our Canada.
Global describes the series as "a regionally-produced documentary
series comprised of 36 hour-long documentaries per year, produced by
independent producers located in the regions where Global has television
stations". At the hearing, Global committed to continue this series
throughout the new licence term. In addition, in Quebec, Global
commissions a movie of the week each year for national broadcast on
Global in English, and on the TVA network in French.
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46. |
Global's development offices are now located in Toronto, Edmonton and
Vancouver. There are no immediate plans to add offices in other cities.
Global stated, however, that it has had success with local managers
overseeing the development of projects that were broadcast nationally,
and that it expects to use a similar approach with respect to the new
documentary series. The Commission considers that these activities are
very important.
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47. |
The Commission notes that Global’s proposed priority programming
schedules appear to feature a reasonable amount of programming from
independent producers, although the extent to which these programs will
continue to be reflective of Canada’s diverse regions is not clear. The
Commission is aware in this regard, however, that Global has only
recently become a truly national system, and may not have had sufficient
time to fully establish the infrastructure to easily licence programming
from all regions of Canada.
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48. |
Some interveners proposed the imposition of specific annual quotas for
regional programming, such as three out of each eight hours per week of
priority programming. Others felt that the Commission could explore the
possibility of commitments to regionally-produced programming averaged
over the licence term. Global was opposed to any form of production quota
on a regional basis, taking the position that program production is very
cyclical in nature, and imposing regional quotas would prevent its
ability to choose the best programming available at any given time.
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49. |
In the Television Policy the Commission expressed the view that
audiences have a strong desire for a better reflection of Canada’s
regions to the country as a whole, and set out a flexible,
incentive-based approach to achieve that goal. Given that approach, the
Commission considers that the imposition of specific regional production
quotas would not be in keeping with the spirit of that policy. The
Commission is, however, of the opinion that Global should be expected to
engage in a level of production activity that is commensurate with its
presence in its respective markets. The Commission therefore expects
Global to commission its priority programming from all regions of Canada,
throughout the course of the new licence term. It further considers that
Global has a special obligation to ensure that its support for
independent production in B.C. is commensurate with the extent of its
television and other media interests in that province.
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Reports on independent production
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50. |
In order that the Commission may monitor the licensee's success in
meeting these expectations, Global must submit annual reports, outlining
all activities related to the licensing of independent production. The
reports must include details on project budgets, the number of hours of
independently-produced programming that is produced and broadcast,
production locations and details regarding the location of the producer’s
home base. The reports will be made public so that producers and other
interested parties can monitor progress in this area. The licensee will
be expected to consult with Commission staff regarding further details
with respect to the content and format of such reports.
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Cultural diversity
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51. |
Pursuant to section 5(3) of the Act, the Commission does not regulate
or supervise matters concerning employment equity in relation to
broadcasting undertakings with more than 100 employees, as they are
subject to the Employment Equity Act. However, as indicated in
Public Notices CRTC 1994-69
and 1995-98, the Commission
continues to regulate matters such as on-screen presence. |
52. |
With respect to cultural diversity, in the Television Policy the
Commission stated that it |
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…will expect all conventional television licensees (at licensing
or licence renewal), to make specific commitments to initiatives
designed to ensure that they contribute to a system that more
accurately reflects the presence of cultural and racial minorities and
Aboriginal peoples in the communities they serve. Licensees are
expected to ensure that the on-screen portrayal of all minority groups
is accurate, fair and non-stereotypical.
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53. |
Accordingly, the Commission explored with Global the measures that
might be implemented to improve the portrayal and representation of
Canada’s cultural diversity. At the hearing, Global made a number of
valuable commitments in this area. These included the development and
provision to the Commission of a plan dealing with cultural diversity,
submission of annual reports on progress made in achieving the goals set
out in the plan, and participation in and financial support for an
industry task force on cultural diversity. In light of these commitments,
the Commission expects the licensee to implement the measures
related to the reflection of cultural diversity that are set out and
discussed below.
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Plan: Portrayal and representation of cultural diversity
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54. |
The Commission expects Global to submit, within three months
of the date of this decision, a detailed plan that includes
specific commitments relating to corporate accountability, reflection of
diversity in programming, and community involvement as they relate to
presence and portrayal of cultural diversity. The Commission considers
that this plan should include goals whose purpose is to ensure that the
diversity of Canadian society is reflected fairly and consistently in the
programming that Global presents.
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Corporate accountability |
55. |
The Commission considers that the elements set out below will help
ensure that the corporate culture of Global supports the reflection of
cultural diversity in the programming that Global presents. In this
section of its plan, the licensee should: |
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· Set goals toward creating a corporate culture that supports a
programming service reflective of Canada’s cultural diversity,
including its Aboriginal reality.
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· Identify a senior executive who will be accountable for diversity
practices and ensuring that management becomes more reflective of
Canada’s multicultural reality.
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· Set clear goals for station managers so that their stations
reflect the diversity that exists in their communities.
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· Ensure that all managers receive appropriate training.
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· Ensure that regular opportunities are provided for staff
assessment of progress made toward the reflection of diversity, as well
as for identification of future challenges.
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· Set out the licensee's plans for hiring and retention of visible
minorities, as well as training in this area that it will provide to
staff.
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Reflection of diversity in programming
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56. |
The licensee’s plan should address the presence of people from
diverse backgrounds both in programming that the licensee produces and in
programming that the licensee acquires. As well, the plan should address
the way that cultural minority groups including Aboriginal peoples are
portrayed in programming. More specifically, with respect to news
programming, the licensee should identify mechanisms to assess progress
in the following areas: |
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· The use of people from minority groups as sources regardless of
whether the issue being discussed is particularly related to a minority
community.
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· Ensuring that stories about ethnic communities do not appear
solely within the context of coverage of cultural celebrations or
reporting of negative stories.
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· Ensuring that on-air personalities reflect the diversity of the
community that the station serves.
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· Ensuring that reporters and journalists from minority communities
are not assigned exclusively to covering stories of principal concern
to cultural groups.
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57. |
The plan should also address how the portrayal and presence of
cultural minorities will be incorporated into all stages of the
production and acquisition of non-news programming, including
decisions about which programs will be broadcast. For instance, the plan
should address how the licensee will ensure that:
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· Those responsible for casting make a concerted effort to hire
visible minority actors in leading and recurring roles.
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· Those persons responsible for script development ensure that
minorities are not portrayed in a stereotypical manner.
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· Programming from independent producers reflects the presence and
accurate portrayal of visible minorities.
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Community involvement |
58. |
The plan should set out mechanisms that the licensee will put in place
to ensure that it receives effective input and feedback from its
community with respect to the reflection of cultural diversity, including
Aboriginal cultures, in its programming. |
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Annual reports |
59. |
The licensee must file annual reports on progress made to achieve the
goals with respect to the reflection of diversity that are set out in the
plan. Such reports should be filed no later than 31 December of each year
of the new licence term.
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Participation in an industry and community task force |
60. |
In Public Notice CRTC 2001-88
issued today, the Commission calls for a proposal and action plan for an
industry and community task force to address matters related to the
reflection of Canada’s cultural diversity in broadcasting. The task
force will identify best practices for broadcasters so that reflection of
cultural diversity is achieved, sponsor research that will serve as a
baseline for measuring progress, and help define issues and present
practical solutions. The Commission expects Global to participate
in the work of this task force and to support the work of the task force
financially.
|
|
Service to the hearing impaired
|
61. |
In the past, closed captioning requirements for private
English-language conventional television stations have differed depending
on revenues. At the hearing, the Commission explored with the licensee
the possibility of requiring all of its stations, regardless of revenues,
to meet requirements for closed captioning by September 2001, and to
caption all news programming, not just local news. The Commission notes
that, at the hearing, the licensee indicated that it had been successful
in selling sponsorships for its closed captioning. Global indicated that
it would accept requirements related to closed captioning applied to all
of its stations regardless of their revenues, effective in September
2001. It also agreed that captioning requirements should apply to all
news programming that is broadcast.
|
62. |
After discussion at the hearing, and in light of commitments made by
the applicant, the Commission has decided that it is reasonable to
require all of the Global stations, regardless of revenues, to caption
90% of all programming that they broadcast, including all news (category
1) programming, beginning 1 September 2001. The Commission is imposing
these requirements as a condition of licence for each of the
Global stations being renewed today, except stations affiliated to the
CBC. The imposition of a condition of licence emphasizes the importance
that the Commission places on commitments with respect to closed
captioning and does not reflect any concerns with Global's performance in
meeting previous requirements. The Commission reminds the licensee that
closed captioning obligations include live feeds. |
63. |
In the case of CBC-affiliated stations, the Commission recognizes
that, other than local programming, most of the schedule of these
stations is provided by the CBC. The Commission notes that Decision CRTC 2000-1
requires the CBC to ensure that at least 90% of the programming
distributed nationally is closed captioned in each year of the licence
term. Consistent with the approach adopted for the CBC, the Commission
therefore expects CBC-affiliated stations owned by Global to
provide captioning of at least 90% of all programming, including 100% of
all news. |
64. |
The Commission notes that the 90% obligation is based on the
recognition that requiring 100% captioning at all times may not be
reasonable or appropriate. Thus, the obligation is designed to cover
unforeseen circumstances (such as late delivery of captions, technical
malfunctions, or the lack of availability of captions for programs
acquired outside North America), or programming where captioning may not
be feasible, such as third language programming. |
65. |
The Commission further expects Global to focus on improving the
quality, reliability and accuracy of captioning on each of its stations,
and to work with representatives of the deaf and hard of hearing
community to ensure that the captioning Global provides continues to meet
their needs at a consistent high quality level.
|
|
Service to the visually impaired
|
66. |
"Audio description" and "video description" or
"described video" are methods of improving the service that
television broadcasters provide to the visually impaired. Audio
description involves the provision of basic voice-overs of textual or
graphic information displayed on the screen. A broadcaster providing
audio description will, for example, not simply display sports scores on
the screen, but also read them aloud so that the visually impaired can
receive the information. |
67. |
Video description, or described video as it is also known, consists of
narrative descriptions of a program’s key visual elements so that the
people who are visually impaired are able to form a mental picture of
what is occurring on the screen. These descriptions can be provided on
the Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) channel. Not all broadcasters are
currently equipped to deliver an SAP signal. Thus, the introduction of
described video via the SAP channel requires significant capital
expenditures to upgrade a licensee's transmission facilities. |
|
Audio description |
68. |
Global confirmed that its policy is to reinforce a program’s textual
and graphic elements, such as the presentation of regular weather
forecasts, sports scores, addresses, and telephone numbers, with an oral
description. The Commission notes this commitment, and expects
Global to ensure that it provides audio description where appropriate. It
further expects the licensee to take the necessary steps to ensure
that its service responds to the needs of visually impaired audiences. |
|
Described video
|
69. |
At the hearing, Global made a significant commitment to roll out
descriptive video programming. Global originally proposed a seven-year
plan for upgrading the technical facilities of all of its stations so
that they could transmit described video. Roll out would begin in the
largest markets, and other markets would be upgraded over the licence
term. The licensee indicated, however, that the seven-year roll out plan
was a minimum commitment and that it would make its best effort to
complete the process within the first two years of the licence term.
|
70. |
Global also committed to a ramp up of the amount of described
programming. As they are upgraded, stations will provide two hours a week
of described Canadian priority programming within the first two years of
the licence term. This minimum level will increase to three hours per
week in the third year, and to four hours per week in year five. At least
50% of the described video programming aired each week will be original,
with the remainder consisting of program repeats. The Commission commends
Global on this significant commitment. |
71. |
The National Broadcast Reading Service (NBRS) recommended that
obligations with respect to described video relate to all categories of
priority programming. The Commission notes, however, that some types of
programming lend themselves more readily to video description. These
types of programming are drama, long-form documentaries and children’s
programming. The Commission considers that requirements related to
described video should apply, first and foremost, to these types of
programs aired during peak viewing periods. |
72. |
In light of the above, the Commission is imposing a condition of
licence on each Global station relating to the provision of described
video. The condition requires Global's largest stations (in Ontario,
Vancouver and Quebec) to broadcast, between 7:00 p.m. and 11 p.m., an
average of two hours per week of described video programming during the
first two years of the licence term. All of Global's stations are
required to provide three hours per week in year three, and four hours
per week in year five. This programming must be Canadian and be from
categories 2 (b) and 7. A minimum of 50% of the hours must be original
broadcasts. The licensee may, however, count toward fulfilment of this
condition a maximum of one hour per week of described video programming
that is directed to children and broadcast at an appropriate children's
viewing time. |
73. |
The Commission further expects Global, wherever possible, to
acquire and exhibit described versions of the Canadian and non-Canadian
programming that its stations broadcast. It notes that some American
programs already include descriptions in order to fulfil requirements in
this area that are in effect in the United States. Finally, the
Commission commends the licensee for making concrete proposals with
respect to the broadcast of programming that includes described video.
The Commission considers that the presence of such programming in the
Canadian broadcasting system is an important contribution.
|
|
Children’s programming
|
74. |
As part of this proceeding, the Commission explored with Global its
plans for the broadcast of children’s programming during the new
licence term. The sample schedule for Global’s national system
indicates that four hours per week of children’s programming will be
broadcast, although as part of this proceeding, Global also stated:
|
|
We are proposing that, going forward, there would be no fixed
commitment to children’s and youth programming in our programming
plans.
|
75. |
In the Television Policy, the Commission stated that the Canadian
broadcasting system as a whole offered children’s programming on a
regular basis, and that a wide variety of both Canadian and foreign
children’s programs of high quality were available to audiences. In
recognition of this availability, the Commission decided to maintain its
policy of not requiring conventional television licensees to broadcast
minimum quantities of programming directed to children and youth.
|
76. |
Interventions from the CFTPA and the Writers Guild of Canada both
requested that the Commission require Global to broadcast a minimum of
three hours per week of children’s programming. The CFTPA also
recommended that broadcasters be given an incentive to invest in new
programs by restoring the 150% credit for first-run Canadian children’s
programming.
|
77. |
The Commission considers that imposing minimum levels of children’s
programming would not be in keeping with the spirit of the Television
Policy. At the same time, it notes that 25% of Canadian homes receive
television over the air, and therefore do not have access to the children’s
programming available from specialty and pay television services and the
Commission is concerned that they too have access to a reasonable
diversity of program genres. |
78. |
Global is a national conventional broadcaster with significant
viewership across the country, and its stations have priority status for
cable carriage under the Broadcasting Distribution Regulations.
The Commission considers that, given these factors, it is reasonable that
Global be expected to provide programming that meets the needs of all age
groups, including children.
|
79. |
At the hearing, Global acknowledged its responsibility to serve the
needs of all audience members, and stated that:
|
|
…it is a legitimate concern and we do have, I think, a
responsibility, as conventional broadcasters. And that’s why we have
left some hours in the schedules.
|
80. |
The Commission therefore, expects Global to continue to provide
children’s programming, and notes its commitment to maintain
programming for children in its schedule.
|
|
Advertising issues
|
|
Request for flexibility
|
81. |
As part of its various applications for renewal of the Global
television stations, the licensee requested that all stations be
permitted to average over each week the current hourly maximum of 12
minutes of advertising as an exception to section 11(1) of the Television
Broadcasting Regulations, 1987. Global stated that such flexibility
would allow it to place more advertising during periods of heaviest
viewing, and thus generate greater advertising revenue. It was
anticipated that advertising during the peak 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
viewing period might approach 14 minutes per hour, while it would average
less than 12 minutes per hour during daytime periods.
|
82. |
In support of its request, Global referred to the recent economic down
turn, and indicated that the flexibility would be exercised only at
Global stations in major markets. It estimated that the increased
flexibility would result in the placement of additional commercials in
foreign programs. While Global foresaw the additional advertising coming
mostly from national advertisers, it noted that if "ad prices are
adjusted accordingly, this may permit some local ad dollars as
well." Global further stated that it would be prepared to make a
commitment to guarantee at least one minute of Canadian content
promotion, on average, over the week, per clock hour.
|
83. |
Global also stated its belief that no additional revenue realized from
this proposal would come at the expense of other conventional
broadcasters, because, if this request were approved, other broadcasters
would also apply for the same flexibility. Global suggested that an
increase in commercial inventory on conventional television stations
would make those stations more price competitive with specialty
television, making it possible to draw revenues away from those
competitors.
|
84. |
An intervention in opposition to the flexibility request was submitted
by the Association of Canadian Advertisers (ACA). At the hearing, the ACA
cited a number of reasons for its opposition to the proposal, including:
|
|
· it could result in excessively cluttered prime time shows,
leading to further commercial avoidance by viewers, and the dilution of
the television product, and
|
|
· the fact that its research indicates that 80% of broadcast hours
in Canada already run an average of over 14 minutes of non-program
material, and that between 50% and 69% of Canadians regularly practice
some form of TV commercial avoidance.
|
85. |
The ACA added that one reason that specialty television services are
so successful in attracting advertising dollars is that during prime time
only 66% of programs play more than 12 minutes of non-program material
per hour, making the programs less cluttered, and therefore more
attractive to viewers. The ACA also expressed the view that, in most
markets, "Canada needs new conventional stations with fewer
commercials…not more commercials on the conventional stations that we
have."
|
86. |
Consistent with the Television Policy, the concerns expressed by both
the public and the advertising industry concerning commercial clutter,
and based on the fact that Global did not present a compelling rationale
for the approval of this request, the Commission has determined that any
amendment to the restriction on advertising minutes is unwarranted at
this time. The Commission therefore denies Global’s request for
flexibility to average commercial content on a weekly basis.
|
|
Request for local advertising on CKMI-TV Quebec City
|
87. |
Also as part of this proceeding, Global requested to be relieved of a
condition of CKMI-TV’s licence that prohibits the broadcast of local
advertising. Global indicated that its original commitment not to
broadcast local advertising was a way of easing the impact on other
stations in the market. In recognition of CKMI-TV’s stated intention to
be a station based on service to the Quebec region, in Decision CRTC 97-85,
the Commission imposed the commitment to not broadcast local advertising
as a condition of licence.
|
88. |
The licensee now believes that it would be appropriate to put all of
the English-language television stations available in Montréal on the
same footing. In support of its request, Global stated that if it is
permitted to broadcast local advertising on CKMI-TV, there would be no
danger that the service would move away from its regional mandate to
become a more Montréal-oriented service. It stated that, as part of
CKMI-TV’s regional mandate, a considerable part of its current
programming is already directed towards Montréal audiences.
|
89. |
Global stated that it is "constantly approached by advertisers
that are looking for new opportunities to increase their market share and
increase their market," and that it recently monitored the origin of
commercials on U.S. border television stations. Over a two-week period,
it noted the broadcast of commercials for 16 local Montréal advertisers
on those stations. Global stated that, if this amendment is approved,
they would expect to be able to repatriate significant advertising
revenues from U.S. border stations, as well as from print and radio
media, and local television stations CFCF-TV and CBMT.
|
90. |
Global stated that, while the approval of its request would allow
CKMI-TV to reach profitability sooner, it is "comfortable with the
current position" and "comfortable with the past
performance."
|
91. |
An intervention in opposition to Global’s request was submitted by
CF Television Inc., licensee of CFCF-TV Montréal. The intervention
expressed concern that the local advertising market in Montréal could
not sustain the addition of another commercial station.
|
92. |
The Commission notes that, while the licensee raised concerns
regarding the loss of local advertising revenue to U.S. border stations,
it acknowledged that some of the local revenue would come at the expense
of other local radio and television stations, and offered no indication
of the magnitude of the potential impact. The Commission is concerned
that the television advertising market in Quebec is already strained, and
that the proposed change could have an adverse impact on other local
broadcasters. It also notes the importance of CKMI-TV's regional mandate.
|
93. |
The Commission concludes that the potential negative consequences for
the local advertising market outweigh any potential benefit. Accordingly,
the Commission denies the application by Global to be relieved of
the prohibition on the broadcast of local advertising on CKMI-TV.
|
|
Virtual advertising
|
94. |
Virtual advertising is a technique whereby commercial messages are
broadcast with no interruption to program content. This can be achieved
through the digital superimposition of advertising graphics or the
creation of "virtual" billboards carrying messages that do not
exist in reality, and can be seen only by the television audience. The
Commission discussed issues related to virtual advertising as a result of
interventions that raised concerns about this practice.
|
95. |
Global stated at the hearing that the use of virtual advertising
involves a partnership between the owner of the technology, the owner of
the program rights, and the broadcaster, each of whom shares in the
profits. Such non-traditional advertising is not sold by time but by the
event, and to date, it has generated approximately $1 million in
revenues.
|
96. |
Most of the successful experiments with virtual advertising have been
with sporting events, because the audiences are large enough to balance
the cost of the technology. Global noted that the technology needs to be
further developed, and indicated that it has had limited success with
virtual advertising, although it is anticipated that more of it will be
done in the future.
|
|
Other non-traditional advertising
|
97. |
Other forms of non-traditional advertising include "product
placement" and "pull-throughs." Product placement refers
to the practice of advertisers paying to have their logos displayed, or
their products used by television program characters. While Global has
experimented with product placement, it finds that the financial returns
are minimal, and the practice is awkward for program producers. It is
difficult to guarantee how long a given product will be visible during a
program, and the value of such exposure is therefore difficult to
establish.
|
98. |
"Pull-throughs" is the industry term for digital images
superimposed on the screen. The practice is quite common in some areas of
the world, but Global indicated that it has received complaints from
viewers about the disruptive nature of this type of advertising. Global
has found, however, that when pull-throughs are combined with information
such as weather updates, for example, the viewer acceptance is much
higher.
|
99. |
The Commission considers that the use of non-traditional advertising,
including virtual advertising, is in its infancy. Revenues are relatively
low at this time, and the cost of the technology restricts its use to
events that draw very large audiences. The Commission will monitor the
development of all non-traditional forms of advertising, and continue to
assess its impact on the public and industry as a whole. If required,
further discussion of non-traditional advertising could take place as
part of a broader review of advertising policy at some future date.
|
|
Compliance with industry codes
|
100. |
In accordance with its usual practice, the Commission is imposing conditions
of licence on each of the Global stations requiring that they adhere
to the industry codes related to violence in television programming,
gender portrayal, and advertising to children. Application of the codes
related to gender portrayal and violence will be suspended so long as the
licensee remains a member in good standing of the Canadian Broadcast
Standards Council (CBSC).
|
|
Cross-media ownership
|
101. |
In Notice of Public Hearing CRTC 2001-3,
the Commission indicated that it would examine questions related to
cross-media ownership in its consideration of applications to renew the
television licences held by Global.
|
|
The Commission’s concerns
|
102. |
Global is part of a corporate family with significant cross-media
holdings, as described earlier in this decision. At the hearing, issues
related to the diversity of voices at the national and local level were
raised by the Commission and by interveners. |
103. |
Global, as of Fall 2000, through its broadcasting assets, has a
potential reach of 97.6% of the English-language population of Canada. |
104. |
In Fall 2000, Global's conventional and specialty assets accounted for
14.5% of the total hours tuned in the Canadian English-language
television market. Global's market share makes it one of the two largest
Canadian broadcasters in the English-language market. |
105. |
Global owns an extensive array of local daily and weekly newspapers
across the country. In addition, Global owns a 50% interest in The
National Post newspaper, one of Canada's two daily national
newspapers. |
106. |
The Commission notes that Global’s level of cross-media ownership is
particularly high in Vancouver/Victoria where it operates two television
stations and three daily newspapers. In Calgary and Ottawa, Global owns
one of the two major daily newspapers and a television station. In each
of Regina and Saskatoon, Global owns the only major daily newspaper and a
television station. |
107. |
The Commission is concerned that cross ownership of television
stations and newspapers, such as is the case with Global, could
potentially lead to the complete integration of the owner’s television
and newspaper news operations. This integration could eventually result
in a reduction of the diversity of the information presented to the
public and of the diversity of distinct editorial voices available in the
markets served. For example, under a fully integrated structure, the same
editor could decide what matters would be investigated and what stories
would be covered by a commonly owned television station and newspaper.
Under such an integrated structure, the television station and the
newspaper may no longer compete and might present a single editorial
position and approach to the selection of stories considered relevant to
the viewers and readers.
|
|
Concerns of interveners
|
108. |
Interveners expressed a number of views regarding cross-media
ownership and its potential effects on Global’s journalistic practices.
|
109. |
The Communication, Energy and Paper Workers Union of Canada (CEP)
objected to a scenario under which a single journalist would cover the
same story for both newspapers and television stations. It referred to
the code developed by Quebecor Média Inc. (Quebecor) and imposed by the
Commission as a condition of licence in Decision 2001-384.
This code is substantially the same as the one that has been in place at
Quebecor since 1997. The code essentially ensures that the newsgathering
activities of Quebecor's newspapers and television stations are
completely separate. CEP considered that the Commission should impose the
Quebecor Code on Global. The Newspaper Guild of Canada also emphasized
the importance of maintaining separate newsrooms rather than the approach
suggested by Global. It considered that the Commission should ensure that
newsrooms work separately from and independent of owners' interests. It
further was of the view that any cross-media safeguards should be imposed
as a condition of licence. |
110. |
The Friends of Canadian Broadcasting (Friends) considered that, in
addition to separate news management, separate newsgathering facilities
must be maintained to ensure that a diversity of voices is available to
Canadians. Friends suggested that the applicant undertake to ensure that
its television newsrooms would gather information independently from the
newsrooms of newspapers in which it has a financial interest. |
111. |
Three university professors generally considered that separation of
news management functions was sufficient and that the Commission should
not impose on Global structural separation newsgathering activities. They
considered that in certain cases, such as in the gathering of routine
news stories, some co-ordination of newsgathering efforts between
newspapers and television stations would be appropriate and could lead to
an increase in the quality of news and information made available. They
also generally considered that imposition of the Quebecor Code, or a
similar code, in the markets concerned could unnecessarily limit the
development of innovative journalistic techniques that make use of new
media such as the Internet.
|
|
The Commission’s jurisdiction
|
112. |
The Commission's concerns about cross-media ownership arise from
sections 3(1)(d)(i), 3(1)(d)(ii) and 3(1)(i)(iv) of
the Act. Section 3(1)(d)(i) states that the Canadian
broadcasting system should: |
|
serve to safeguard, enrich and strengthen the cultural, political,
social and economic fabric of Canada.
|
|
Section 3(1)(d)(ii) states that the programming provided by the
Canadian broadcasting system should: |
|
encourage the development of Canadian expression by providing a wide
range of programming that reflects Canadian attitudes, opinions, ideas,
values and artistic creativity, by displaying Canadian talent in
entertainment programming and by offering information and analysis
concerning Canada and other countries from a Canadian point of view.
|
113. |
Section 3(1)(i)(iv) of the Act states that the programming
provided by the Canadian broadcasting system should: |
|
provide a reasonable opportunity for the public to be exposed to the
expression of differing views on matters of public concern.
|
114. |
In light of the policy objectives set out in the Act, the Commission
considers that it has a responsibility to ensure that a sufficient
diversity of broadcasting news and information voices remains as
convergence continues to take place between broadcasters and related
industries. |
115. |
Given these concerns, the Commission discussed with the applicant
possible safeguards that might be put in place to ensure editorial
independence between the applicant's interests in the broadcast and print
media at both the national and local levels. |
|
Global’s position
|
116. |
The Statement of Principles And Practices submitted by Global
at the hearing set out the following seven points: |
|
· Global adheres to the Broadcasting Act in its entirety and
specifically in this context to sub-section 3(1)(i)(iv) of the Broadcasting
Act;.
|
|
· Global will maintain its own news management structure for Global
television operations which is separate and distinct from that of
Global newspaper holdings. Journalistic content and presentation
decisions for Global will be made by Global television news management;
|
|
· Global news managers will not sit on editorial boards of any
newspapers owned or controlled by Global;
|
|
· Global will establish an internal mechanism to deal with
complaints arising from any of the principles and practices included
herein, and will report back to the Commission on an annual basis;
|
|
· Global will maintain its membership with the Canadian Broadcast
Standards Council (CBSC) and will continue to adhere to each of the
Codes under its purview, including the CAB Code of Ethics, and will
continue to adhere to the Radio and Television News Directors
Association (RTNDA) Code of Ethics;
|
|
· This statement shall be communicated to employees; and
|
|
· Through Public Service Announcements, our audiences shall be made
aware of how to contact us and the existing complaint mechanisms
through the CBSC and Press Councils.
|
117. |
Global was of the view that collaboration between its newspapers and
television stations, if wisely implemented, could be of benefit to the
public by increasing the quality and variety of news coverage. It
considered that newspaper and television journalists could collaborate to
examine stories from different angles and present them in different ways
on different media. This could lead to more in-depth and compelling
coverage. Global further pointed out the various cost savings that could
result from synergies between television and newspapers. For example,
Global considered that it would be possible to have one person, rather
than two, cover routine news stories, such as news conferences, for both
television and newspapers. This would leave more reporters free to cover
other stories, thereby increasing the number of stories that might be
presented to the public. It also considered that its television stations
and newspapers could effectively cross-promote each other’s
journalistic activities.
|
118. |
Although Global was willing to make commitments to the above measures,
which generally deal with news management issues, it objected to the
introduction of measures that would enforce structural separation between
the newsrooms and newsgathering activities of its television stations and
newspapers. As indicated earlier, the licensee considered that the news
coverage provided by its television stations would be enhanced if they
had access to the information gathered by newspaper reporters. Global
considered that separation of newsgathering functions was not necessary
to ensure that Canadians have access to a diversity of news voices.
Global, therefore, objected to the imposition of the Quebecor Code on its
own operations. |
119. |
Global also indicated that the CBSC, of which Global is a member, was
considering the launch of a review of its codes so that they would take
into account concerns arising from cross-media issues. Global, for its
part, would launch a public service announcement campaign to make the
public aware of the CBSC’s codes as well as those of press councils,
and to publicize the internal complaints mechanism. It also indicated
that it would be willing to initiate "right of reply"
programming so that those with different points of view from those
expressed by Global would be able to make them known. |
|
The Commission’s conclusions
|
120. |
The Commission considers that Global's position in newspapers and
television raises concerns related to cross-media ownership in the
markets that it serves, and that safeguards are required. |
121. |
Specifically, the Commission considers that Global must, as a minimum,
maintain news management for its television stations that is separate
from news management of the newspapers affiliated to Global. The
Commission has therefore set out, in Appendix 1 to this document, a Statement
of Principles and Practices that it is imposing on Global as a condition
of licence. The Commission will monitor developments with respect to
news and information programming over the upcoming licence term to
determine if other action is necessary.
|
122. |
In essence, the Statement of Principles and Practices requires
the licensee to maintain separate and independent news management and
presentation structures for Global television operations that are
distinct from those of any Global affiliated newspaper. It thus requires
separation of news management functions, but not newsgathering
activities. Therefore, cross promotion and some cooperation between
Global’s television stations and newspapers affiliated to Global in
newsgathering would be permissible.
|
123. |
Further, the Commission is requiring Global, by condition of
licence, to establish a Monitoring Committee as set out in Appendix
"A" to the Statement of Principles and Practices. The
licensee must establish an impartial, neutral committee to receive and
handle all complaints concerning Global’s compliance with the Statement
of Principles and Practices. The Committee will, among other things,
provide an annual report to the Commission that will also be available to
the public. The Commission further notes Global’s commitment to spend
$1 million a year in announcements to publicize the Statement of
Principles and Practices, including the existence and
responsibilities of the Monitoring Committee. |
124. |
The Commission further expects the licensee to respect the Statement
of Principles and Practices in the operations of its other
broadcasting services that provide news and information. |
125. |
The Commission will be prepared, however, to consider suspending
application of the conditions of licence respecting cross-media issues if
the licensee is able to enter into an agreement with the CBSC resulting
in an industry-wide code approved by the Commission and while Global is a
member in good standing of the CBSC. The CBSC code of conduct must
include an appropriate monitoring mechanism to be administered by the
CBSC. Any application by the licensee to suspend these conditions of
licence should include confirmation that the licensee supports the CBSC
code of conduct, including the monitoring mechanism, and that the
licensee is a member in good standing of the CBSC.
|
126. |
The Commission further expects Global to implement right of
reply programming, as proposed. |
|
Interventions |
127. |
The Commission wishes to thank all those who participated in the
process leading to this decision, either through their written
interventions or through presentations at the public hearing. |
|
Related CRTC documents |
|
• Decisions 2001-458-1 to 2001-458-14: Licence renewal
decisions for individual Global stations
|
|
• Decision 2001-457: Licence
renewal of CTV television stations
|
|
• Decision 2001-459: Cable
carriage of CIVT-TV Vancouver
|
|
• Public Notice 2001-88:
Representation of cultural diversity on television -Creation of an
industry/community task force
|
|
• Decisions 2001-384 and 2001-385:
Transfer of effective control of TVA to Quebecor Média inc. and TVA
renewal
|
|
• Decision 2000-221: Acquisition
by CanWest Global Communications Corp., through its wholly-owned
subsidiary CW Shareholdings Inc., of the ownership interests held
previously by WIC Western International Communications Ltd., in various
conventional television stations and in certain other broadcast
holdings
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• Public Notice 2000-94
and Decisions 2000-229 to 2000-250: Implementation of TV policy -
New conditions of licence
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• Public Notice 1999-205:
Definitions for new types of priority programs; revisions to the
definitions of television content categories; definitions of Canadian
dramatic programs that will qualify for time credits towards priority
programming requirements.
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• Public Notice 1999-97:
Building on success - A policy framework for Canadian television
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• Public Notices 1992-59,
1994-69 and 1995-98
- documents related to employment equity
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Secretary General
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This document is available in alternate
format upon request and may also be examined at the following Internet
site: http://www.crtc.gc.ca |