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Toronto - ACTRA cautiously welcomed today’s government response to the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage’s review of Canada’s broadcasting system. “It might be a good start, depending,” said Stephen Waddell, ACTRA’s National Executive Director. “Action is what matters and it would appear none is going to be forthcoming today.” ACTRA is encouraged by the government’s recognition of the importance of the Canadian Television Fund’s role in supporting the production of Canadian programming. However, ACTRA is disappointed that the government stopped short of pledging long-term and stable funding, as recommended by the Committee. “The fund must be refinanced at least to its $100 million level, and given a long-term commitment,” Waddell said. ACTRA also welcomes the in-principle support for the CRTC’s examination of incentives for the production of Canadian drama, but again, the government doesn’t go far enough. “The CRTC must properly regulate the broadcasters so that they meet their obligations under the Broadcasting Act, and commit to taking prime time back for Canada. The government could help by joining the Lincoln Committee in calling for that kind of regulatory reform from the CRTC.” ACTRA also appreciates the in-principle commitment to carefully consider the issue of foreign ownership of Canada’s broadcasters. “But let’s be clear about this – the Lincoln Committee is speaking for Canada in urging the government to protect Canadian ownership of the most powerful media we have. The government should speak for Canada on this issue as well.” Finally, ACTRA welcomes the government’s commitment to strengthening Canadian content guidelines. “Hopefully, as a practical matter, this means that the unhelpful aspects of the recent Macerola report are dead,” Waddell said. ACTRA (Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists) is a national organization of professional performers working in the English-language recorded media in Canada. ACTRA represents the interests of 21,000 members across Canada – the foundation of Canada’s highly acclaimed professional performing community. This year, ACTRA celebrates its 60th Anniversary. -30- |
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