Annual Reports

1999-2000

Corporate Overview | Programming | Financial Report | Appendices

Message from the President and CEO

Public broadcasting is of major importance to Canada. This was true in 1936 when the Government of Canada created the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, and it remains just as important — if not more important — to upholding and strengthening the unique cultural, social and political nature of Canada, today. It was with this profound belief that I embarked upon my duties as President and CEO of the CBC several months ago.

Guiding my early course of action in the Office was the desire to assess and embrace change quickly in order to reinforce CBC's strengths, such as news and information, and to develop new approaches to all programming. CBC's goal is to become more efficient and relevant, and to fulfil its mandate to the Canadian people.

Thus, in December 1999 a Re-engineering Task Force was struck, headed by James McCoubrey, Executive Vice-President and COO. The Task Force was charged with examining several aspects of operations, initially focusing on English Television, transmission and distribution, property management, and sports, in order to identify the efficiencies which would enable us to focus our resources on what is essential, namely programming.

The following priorities have already been identified: distinctive programming of the highest quality; credible, independent journalism; excellence in children and youth programming; and fewer commercials. In addition, to maintain its relevance, adapt to the communications revolution underway and secure its place in the fiercely competitive broadcasting environment, the CBC must focus on content, strengthen its existing services and build on its core competencies. By entering into production, distribution or broadcasting partnerships with private and public players, the CBC will be able to extend its reach and make its quality programming available on several platforms including the Internet.

Canada needs a strong public broadcaster that is prepared to look beyond ratings to create platforms where artists can develop and promote their talents, and Canadians can contemplate subjects of concern to them, revel in the world's beauty, marvel at people's accomplishments or question human foibles. The CBC is mandated to provide Canadians with news about their country and the world while striking a suitable balance between regional, national and international news. It must inform citizens in the various regions of Canada about the concerns and views of people in other regions, to achieve better mutual understanding and an appreciation of differing views on national issues.

Heartfelt congratulations are due to Perrin Beatty, former CBC President and CEO. During his tenure, the CBC succeeded in Canadianising English Television's schedule, especially during prime time — contributing to a further differentiation between the public CBC and private broadcasters. In so doing, Mr. Beatty helped to strengthen the CBC's value to Canadians and also provided more opportunities for the development and showcasing of Canadian talent. This is a lasting tribute to him. Mr. Beatty accomplished much during a time of financial crisis and downsizing. He made difficult decisions and did so with style and class.

Our financial challenges and limitations continue. Yet, in recent years, and despite unremitting financial pressures, the  journalists, artists and craftspeople of the CBC have demonstrated great creativity and overcome numerous difficulties in order to offer Canadians top-quality programs. This is a profound accomplishment. To continue to produce distinctive programming in a financially responsible way, CBC must rely, more than ever, on their support and that of all members of our staff. With their help, the past excellence of the CBC will be our future.

Robert Rabinovitch
President and CEO