Broadcasting - Staff Letter addressed to Pierre-Karl Péladeau (Quebecor Media Inc.)

Ottawa, 27 August 2024

BY EMAIL

Pierre-Karl Péladeau
Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer
Quebecor Media Inc.
612 St-Jacques Street
Montréal, Quebec
H3C 4M8

Subject: Preview of ICI RDI information service

Pierre-Karl Péladeau,

On behalf of Vicky Eatrides, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of the CRTC, I would like to thank you for your letter dated 26 August 2024, addressed to herself and Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

In this letter, you express your concern in regards of the plans to preview French-language news service, ICI RDI, by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), during part of the U.S. election period (1 to 31 October 2024). You find that this could unduly disadvantage the private broadcasters, as they are also counting on the election period to boost their audience and advertising revenues.

We have taken note of your concerns. However, private and public broadcasters, including the CBC, can preview their services at any time they choose. In doing so, the CBC is not breaking any rules.

Nevertheless, rest assured that the CRTC will react accordingly should the CBC fail to meet its obligations.

Yours sincerely,

Original signed by

Scott Shortliffe,
Executive Director of Broadcasting

c.c.: Catherine Tait, President and CEO, CBC/Radio-Canada

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