Crtc Essay

In the article “Consumers Know Best,” by Lena Leung, it is argued that no one likes Canadian television; therefore, the CRTC (Canadian Radio Television and Telecommunications Commission) should not be regulating our programming. It is very bold of Lena Leung to speak on behalf of all Canadians as she is clearly wrong. Just because she does not like it does not mean that all Canadians do not like Canadian broadcasting. The CRTC has been put in place by the Canadian government to protect Canadians. We as Canadians need to protect our culture and our economy; the CRTC is trying to do just that.
Lena Leung argues “who would really notice if London's local channel, the "A" Channel, suddenly disappeared?” As a previous T.V. programming sales representative, the answer is to that question is thousands of Canadians would notice! Many people walk into their local T.V. providers’ office every week looking for local Canadian channels. This does not include the countless phone calls made as well to these providers. Lena assumes that because she does not like the Canadian shows; no one likes the Canadian shows. You know what they say about people who make assumptions. . .
Canada has a very rich and diverse culture and every day brings change. Many shows provide learning of this culture such as the aboriginal channel. The aboriginal channel is a great way for some parents to teach their culture to their children in a time where traditions have changed. Even though we are no longer living in teepees and hunt our next meal; it is the history behind Canada. Since Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world it is important to provide everyone with the knowledge of past Canadian culture.
Even though many people do appreciate these channels, Lena is right; not everyone is happy about being forced to pay for them. The CRTC insists that all TV broadcasters must offer a set number of hours of made-in-Canada TV and local TV; therefore, many Canadians are paying for channels they do not want. But these people should not complain as without these regulations set by the CRTC our economy might drop. Without the CRTCs regulations Canadian broadcasters wouldn’t have a chance against much bigger American T.V. productions; this would lead to lost jobs. Imagine all the actors, directors, camera crews, lot owners, hair and makeup crew, and countless others involved in the Canadian production down to the coffee runner trying to make a buck. All these people would be affected and need to seek work elsewhere. Also, by not having the standards set by the CRTC; we would be pouring out Canadian dollars into the hands of the Americans. This would cause too large of an importation and we would have a negative balance of trade in the entertainment field.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion regarding Canadian channels but we must consider the consequences should the CRTC not implement these standards. They are in place to protect us and we could learn something from the Canadian shows. Try trading in one mindless reality T.V. show per week and take a look at some of the shows Canadians have to offer. You may be surprised and actually enjoy what you see.