CRTC issues Indigenous broadcasting policy consult; asks about quotas

The CRTC has issued a call for comments as part of Phase 2 of the co-development process for an Indigenous broadcasting policy to ensure that all online broadcasts, radio, and television, meet the needs and interests of Indigenous peoples. The CRTC also issued a press release Friday announcing the creation of an Indigenous Relations Team. “The team will support Indigenous participation in CRTC proceedings and will ensure the distinct nature and lived experiences of Indigenous peoples are considered across the CRTC’s work,” the commission stated. In the consultation, the CRTC intends to explore quotas and expenditure requirements for non-Indigenous broadcasters. The CRTC noted that in a bid to modernize regulations and adapt to changing broadcasting landscapes, it shifted from content quotas to expenditure-based measures, particularly for audio-visual services. However, the commission acknowledged the persistent demand for Indigenous representation and aims to explore alternative regulatory mechanisms to ensure the inclusion of Indigenous content on non-Indigenous platforms. The CRTC established the current Indigenous broadcasting policy in 1990. It has remained relatively unchanged for three decades. In 2019 the CRTC launched the first phase of its review – engagement sessions across the country with Indigenous broadcasters, content creators, and artists. The CRTC said the purpose of Phase 1 was “to establish the conduct and scope of the public consultation process leading to the development of the policy.” In the third phase, the CRTC “will present preliminary conclusions and policy determinations from that consultation process to Indigenous participants to give them the opportunity to provide further comments on the potential impacts of the proposed policy.” The Phase 1 report, issued in 2021, highlighted a proposal for Indigenous content quotas, put forth by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals and groups. These quotas – potentially set at five per cent of content on both radio and TV – aim to reflect the proportion of the Indigenous population in Canada. Mainstream broadcasters faced criticism for their reluctance to showcase Indigenous content to broader audiences. Indigenous groups attempting to produce TV content reportedly face dismissive attitudes, leading to the calls for mandatory requirements on mainstream broadcasters. Concerns were also raised about the visibility of the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN), with some feeling it is relegated to the fringes of cable channel line-ups. The report highlighted challenges within CBC/Radio-Canada, including cumbersome approval processes for Indigenous projects and inadequate representation of Indigenous languages. Key questions raised in the Phase 2 consultation include the appropriate percentage of broadcast time that should be dedicated to Indigenous-created content, potential modifications to existing content quotas for Indigenous radio stations, and strategies to encourage the broadcast of Indigenous content on non-Indigenous audio-visual services. Additionally, stakeholders are invited to propose alternative means beyond expenditure or exhibition requirements to fulfill the objective of boosting Indigenous representation. Broadcasters are asked if the current definition of an Indigenous undertaking meets their needs or creates further barriers. They are also asked to comment on how the CRTC can improve the criteria for existing Indigenous radio stations to better serve their community members without creating undue regulatory burdens. The CRTC wants feedback on whether or not current ownership and control requirements pose challenges for Indigenous undertakings and if it could be beneficial to operate Indigenous radio stations in a similar way as commercial radio stations. The CRTC has a series of questions for audience members. Viewers are asked to comment on the effectiveness and relevance of existing Indigenous broadcasting services. The CRTC is seeking feedback on how well these services meet the needs and interests of Indigenous communities. Participants are encouraged to provide suggestions for improvement, whether in terms of content diversity, quality, or accessibility through different mediums such as over-the-air, cable, satellite, or online platforms. Additionally, questions inquire about the representation of Indigenous voices and cultures in programming, addressing concerns regarding respectful and accurate portrayal and ways to enhance relevance and reflection within content. Participants are prompted to evaluate the current state of Indigenous language programming and suggest improvements to better meet community needs and interests. Considerations are raised regarding the National Public Alerting System (NPAS) and its responsiveness to Indigenous audiences, with questions focusing on the necessity of broadcasting emergency alerts in Indigenous languages and potential changes to enhance communication and safety measures for Indigenous communities. The CRTC will hold virtual information sessions on how to participate in this proceeding. Parties wishing to participate can email the commission at autochtones-indigenous@crtc.gc.ca or call by phone at 1-877-249-2782. Comments are due July 22, 2024. – Reporting by Jenna Cocullo at jcocullo@thewirereport.ca

CRTC issues Indigenous broadcasting policy consult; asks about quotas

Broadcast | March 22, 2024

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CRTC issues Indigenous broadcasting policy consult; asks about quotas

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