“You see them saying that they want more leeway to cover neighbouring communities, they want more leeway to cover national and international news. People are already getting that stuff,” said Konieczna.
Bell also requested the elimination of a requirement for English-language television stations in metropolitan markets to broadcast at least 14 hours of local programming per week. In Quebec, Bell asked the regulator to do away with its obligations to broadcast at least five hours of local programming per week at its Montreal station.
The report found CTV News led the way in weekly reach among English speakers for traditional news consumption methods. Toronto Metropolitan University School of Journalism chair Janice Neil said Bell could have a viable argument if its requests allow it to shift some resources toward digital platforms.Article content
While the federal government has taken steps to find solutions to the industry’s financial woes, primarily through Bill C-11, the Online Streaming Act, and Bill C-18, the Online News Act, there are concerns neither will be as effective as hoped.Article content