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Public Notice
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Ottawa, 27 March 1986
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Public Notice CRTC 1986-75
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CRTC Action Committee on Northern Native Broadcasting
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On 19 December 1985 in Public Notice CRTC 1985-274 entitled "Northern Native Broadcasting", the Commission established a policy framework designed to improve the quality and quantity of access by native broadcasters to the Canadian broadcasting system.
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In light of the diversity of interests, and the wide-ranging yet evolutionary nature of native communications in the North, the Commission adopted a flexible approach for the formulation and implementation of its policy principles for native program distribution, "relying, in the first instance, on consultation and good will rather than the imposition of conditions of licence or generally applicable regulations".
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As noted in Public Notice CRTC 1985-274, the Commission hereby establishes an Action Committee to "deal with the problems of fair access ... with a view to resolving conflicts in the best interests of all parties" and "will approach distribution alternatives on a case-by-case basis". It will act as a catalyst in attempting to bring about a negotiated settlement in an atmosphere of consultation, goodwill and fairness.
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The Committee will respond to conflicts brought to its attention by native communications societies or by the broadcasters who have been requested to provide access. If unable to reach a solution, the Committee will report its recommendations to the Executive Committee of the CRTC.
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The Action Committee will be comprised of representatives of NNATCOM (a national organization of native communications societies), the CBC, the Department of Communications and the Department of Secretary of State. A representative of the CRTC will chair and co-ordinate the activities of the Committee.
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Others will be invited to participate from time to time as required and as determined by the distribution alternatives available in a particular region. These could include native communications societies, the particular broadcasters who have been requested to provide access, technical advisers and representatives of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters, where appropriate.
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The Committee will be governed by the principles, priorities and suggestions contained in the Commission's Northern Native Policy and, in keeping with its mandate to find solutions to distribution problems, will have the flexibility to explore various solutions for ensuring fair access. The Commission will follow closely the work of the Committee.
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In order to ensure that the principles of fair access are implemented rapidly so as to provide adequate distribution of native-produced programs, the Commission has authorized the Committee to begin its activities immediately.
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Fernand Bélisle Secretary General
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