Heritage minister says regulatory barriers should not impede rollout of OTA digital TV

In what could be his first and last speech to the industry—depending on the outcome of moves for a coalition government next week—Heritage Minister James Moore weighed in on Canada’s transition to digital, urging for an industry-led solution that will see over-the-air (OTA) broadcasters working in partnership with BDUs to ensure a smooth switch without additional costs being pushed on consumers.“We need solutions that will encourage innovation and new approaches rather than asking Canadian taxpayers to subsidize existing business models,” said Moore at a speech delivered today at an International Institute of Communications conference in Ottawa.“If necessary, I will be prepared to ask the CRTC under Section 14 of the Broadcasting Act to review and consider any technical matter relating to such a solution and I would expect the CRTC to play a role to ensure that no regulatory barriers will impede such a solution."Moore also said the transition to digital appears to be on track, but he warned that there’s significant work ahead for stakeholders to ensure a smooth process. Alluding to the 2011 deadline for the switch to digital, Moore says the fact that it comes two years after the U.S. deadline, gives industry stakeholders ample time to get their act together, adding that he remains concerned about the pace of the switch to digital.“However I am concerned that different parts of this country’s communications systems are making the transition to digital technology at different rates."With the current global economic downturn in full stead, Moore assured industry stakeholders of his government’s support, stressing that all moves will be taken to ensure confidence in Canadian institutions. While praising the industry for building world-class infrastructure and delivering quality services, he said the digital era will present challenges in providing content and delivering services on different platforms at a time of the customer’s choosing.Though he did not refer directly to the potential ouster of the Conservative government by a Liberal-NDP coalition, Moore jokingly said that entertainment provided on television and radio helps to ease the difficult times.“Your services also provide hours and hours of entertainment. During this period of economic uncertainty and political soap-opera, we want you to continue the viability of the communication sector,” he said, eliciting laughter from the audience.In the 10-minute speech, Moore paid tribute to Ted Rogers, founder of Rogers Communications Inc., for establishing a successful company that has earned him a reputation as one of Canada’s true tycoons.“I join everyone in this room and in this country in sending my deepest condolences to the Rogers family and friends. On behalf of the government of Canada and on behalf of the prime minister of this country, he will be greatly missed." Moore was appointed minister on Oct. 30. At age 32, he is the youngest member of Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s cabinet.

Heritage minister says regulatory barriers should not impede rollout of OTA digital TV

News | 12/02/2008 9:34 pm EST

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