The Canadian government is set to announce significant changes to CBC/Radio-Canada’s mandate in the coming weeks, according to CBC News which cited a senior government official. Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge is expected to reveal legislative and regulatory updates aimed at modernizing the public broadcaster to better adapt to the evolving media landscape.
The announcement, anticipated in late October or early November, will likely include the appointment of a new CEO to replace Catherine Tait, whose term ends in January. The incoming chief executive is described as a “change maker” who will be tasked with reshaping the organization’s future.
Key aspects of the mandate review include addressing long-term funding challenges, reinforcing the broadcaster’s commitment to local news, fostering collaboration with other local news outlets, and enhancing trust among all Canadians, including skeptics.
The government aims to position CBC/Radio-Canada as a vital institution in the face of challenges posed by foreign tech giants and the decline of traditional media outlets. The broadcaster received approximately $1.3 billion in federal funding last year, supplemented by $515 million in self-generated revenue.
READ: $313 Million In Government Funding Drives CBC Stability Despite Advertising Slump In First Quarter
This review comes at a critical time for Canadian media, with hundreds of newspapers closing since 2009 and major broadcasters facing financial pressures. The mandate changes are expected to emphasize CBC’s role in serving communities where “news deserts” have emerged due to outlet closures.
The announcement will also address the broader context of recent media legislation, such as the Online News Act and Online Streaming Act, which aim to support Canadian news and entertainment in the digital age.
While the majority of Canadians support maintaining CBC/Radio-Canada, the broadcaster faces criticism from some quarters, including Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s pledge to defund its English-language operations if elected.
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