Appointment of review panel for public consultations on direct-to-home satellite policy
OTTAWA, November 29, 1994 Industry Minister John Manley and Canadian Heritage Minister Michel Dupuy today announced the appointment of a three-member panel to review public submissions and make recommendations in the public consultation phase of the Government's review of direct-to-home (DTH) satellite policy.The Ministers had previously announced their intention to review Government policy with respect to DTH satellite distribution undertakings. The review has become necessary due to the imminent introduction of these services in Canada, and their potential impact on the Canadian broadcasting and telecommunications systems. It will also take into account the Government's policy on Canadian content and culture.
DTH satellite distribution undertakings combine the use of high-powered satellites, digital technology and small "dish" receivers to deliver a range of broadcasting and other services directly to households, offering up to 200 channels. These undertakings will affect the evolution of the Canadian broadcasting system and become a component of the emerging information highway.
A Notice seeking public submissions and comments on a range of public policy questions raised by the introduction of these distribution services in Canada was published in the Canada Gazette on November 26. The process calls on all interested parties to provide written submissions on a variety of issues concerning DTH. The written submissions are to be put forward in two phases. The first phase will be for a period of 45 days and terminates on January 10, 1995. The second phase calls for public comment on all of the initial submissions by February 23,1995.
The process will be open and transparent and will allow all interested parties to participate in the policy review. The Government intends to balance all interests in the development of a comprehensive public policy.
The Ministers have appointed the panel to review all submissions received in response to the Gazette Notice and to provide advice in the form of written recommendations, which will be made public. In addition, the Information Highway Advisory Council will provide advice to the Ministers on the questions raised in the Gazette Notice. The Ministers will formulate policies taking into account the recommendations and advice received.
Panel Members:
Gordon Ritchie (Chair): Chief Executive Officer of Strategico Inc., former federal government trade negotiator and senior public servant.
Roger Tassé: Former Deputy Minister of Justice Canada and Co-chair of a federal government task force on Canadian periodicals.
Robert Rabinovitch: Executive Vice-President and Chief Executive Officer of Claridge Inc., former Deputy Minister of Communications and Under-Secretary of State.
Information:
Michael Helm
Industry Canada
(613) 998-4241
Susan Baldwin
Canadian Heritage
(613) 990-7937
[ Media Room ]
