Save the A Channel and Local Television in Canada

It is imperative to the community that our local Television Station CKVR Television (‘A’ Barrie) be given the tools it needs to ensure its long term survival and viability. 

The CRTC has recognized that the regulatory system in which local stations operate is in need of repair.  While CTVglobemedia has already announced cutbacks in a number of communities such as Barrie, further cutbacks could seriously jeopardize the future of local television in Canada.

Local stations have only one source of revenue, advertising, and just like other industries; advertisers are feeling the effects of a global recession.  The result is that advertisers are slashing their budgets, spending less on television advertising and directing their marketing efforts elsewhere.  This drop in revenue for the stations means the cost of running them is far outpacing the amount of profit they are generating.  The A Channel in Barrie had their licensed renewed for one year and without fee for carriage will likely cease to exist.  

"I believe that a rebalancing of the relationship between these local stations, cable companies and satellite carriers is the key to survival of local television.  The CRTC must allow local television stations to add a second source of revenue, a fee-for-carriage, which would be paid for by local cable providers, and mandate that all local television stations in Canada be distributed by satellite carriers.".   MP Brown. 

Further: "If the “A” Stations ceased to exist it would be a tremendous set back for local television in Canada.   The majority of residents in my riding adore having the ability to learn about local news, cultural activities and charitable events through the “A” station.    It would be a sad chapter in Canadian culture if the “A” station died. ".

MP Patrick Brown faxed a letter to the CRTC on Thursday Night to this effect.

Mr Brown is also starting a public campaign to Save the A Channel by starting a City wide petition.   Brown is encouraging resident to visit his constituency office at 299 Lakeshore to sign the petition which will be presented in the House of Commons and to the CRTC.

Click here to download the Petition for Barrie Residents ONLY.

Click here to download the Petition for anyone living outside of Barrie.