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Broadcasting
The following is meant solely to help the reader understand the main features of primary regulations governing this activity, and not meant in any way to provide a legal interpretation.
Broadcasting Act (Bill C-40) (Federal Legislation):
"Broadcasting" means any transmission of programs, whether or not encrypted by radio waves or other means of telecommunications for reception by means of broadcasting receiving apparatus, but does not include any such transmission that is made solely for performance or display in a public place.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulates and supervises all aspects of the Canadian broadcasting system with a view to implementing the broadcasting policy set out by Parliament in the Broadcasting Act. The policy states that the broadcasting system shall be effectively owned and controlled by Canadians. In addition, the system should be comprised of public, private and community elements that offer varied and comprehensive programming of high standard and provide a balance of information, enlightenment and entertainment for men, women and children of all ages, interests and tastes. Broadcasting licenses must make maximum use, and in no case less than predominant use, of Canadian creative and other resources in the creation and presentation of programming.
For a list of broadcasting regulations go to: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/statutes.htm
Primary Contact:
Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
530 - 580 Hornby Street
Vancouver, BC, V6C 3B6
Tel: (604) 666-2111
TDD: (604) 666-0778
Toll Free: 1-877-249-CRTC (2782)
Fax: (604) 666-8322
http://www.crtc.gc.ca
Libel and Slander Act
Broadcasting is defined as the dissemination of information in writing, signs, signals, pictures, sounds or intelligence of any nature which is available on subscription to the general public.
A public newspaper or other periodical publication is defined as a paper containing public news, intelligence or occurrences and also includes the remarks or observations printed and published in the paper.
The Act deals with:
- Defamation in broadcast
- Disclosure of privileged court information in newspaper reports of proceedings
- Unfairly biased reporting in newspaper reports of public meetings
- Publication of official privileged reports
- Evidence, damages, libel and slander actions.
Primary Contact:
If an action is taken against you, or you wish to commence an action against another party, it is recommended that you contact a solicitor for advice regarding application of this Act.
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