The CRTC has finally begun a process to determine what can be done if Viacom International Inc.’s rebranded Spike TV is competitive with a number of existing Canadian specialty channels (Broadcasting Public Notice 2004-14). The commission notes that it could remove the rebranded station from the list of foreign services eligible for carriage in Canada or it could require the channel to be linked exclusively with Canadian pay TV services if such a determination is made. The CRTC is asking for industry comments on whether Spike TV is wholly or partially competitive with Canadian pay and specialty services, and if the U.S. channel is found to be competitive what action would be appropriate to take. Comments are due by May 17, 2004.

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