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Broadcasting Information Bulletin CRTC 2026-11

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Reference: 2023-278

Gatineau, 15 January 2026

Processing of radio applications and complaints that have been placed on hold to date

  1. In Broadcasting Information Bulletin 2023-278, the Commission announced that it would be deferring the examination of new applications or complaints relating to radio and focusing its resources and efforts on the implementation of its regulatory plan for modernizing the Canadian broadcasting framework.
  2. Since the publication of Broadcasting Information Bulletin 2023-278, the Commission has continued to receive applications and complaints relating to radio. The Commission has processed applications where applicants have demonstrated exceptional circumstances. All other applications have been placed on hold.
  3. Given the progress the Commission has made on the implementation of its regulatory plan, it will start processing applications that have been placed on hold.
  4. The Commission will issue letters to applicants asking them to confirm whether they wish to proceed with their applications as originally submitted, amend their applications, or withdraw them. It will also ask applicants if they wish to submit updated information to the Commission and, if applicable, to the Department of Industry (also known as Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada).
  5. The end of the Commission’s deferral of radio applications and complaints will coincide with the publication date of the upcoming audio policy.Footnote 1 For applications received until that date, the Commission will continue to require applicants to demonstrate exceptional circumstances to justify the need to process those applications. This requirement will no longer apply once the new audio policy is published.
  6. When processing applications, the Commission will consider the order in which it received the application, as well as the type of application (for example, an application to operate a new radio station will require a public hearing).
  7. When examining all radio applications going forward, the Commission will take into account its determinations regarding the modernization of radio processes, set out in Broadcasting Regulatory Policy 2025-265, notably in terms of reducing regulatory burden, modernizing its compliance framework, streamlining its processes, and providing greater flexibility, where applicable. In this regard, the Commission invites applicants to review its specific determinations set out in Broadcasting Regulatory Policy 2025-265, which are summarized in Appendix 2 to that regulatory policy.

Secretary General

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