Local Station Surcharge

[Buddyboy]

I have read that there is a controversial move afoot by some signal suppliers to add a surcharge for local station programming to cover a charge being levied by the CRTC intended to support local programming through the current economic challenges. The CRTC state that the charge (Local Programme Improvement Fund) amounts to 1.5% for one year. They also say that "...the Commission saw no justification for broadcasting distribution undertakings to pass along any increased costs relating to the LPIF to their subscribers." Has this been discussed on this forum? Is Shaw Direct charging or intending to charge a surplus to cover this charge? The CRTC explain that "Programming distribution revenues totalled $7 billion in 2008 – an increase of 10.2% over 2007."

See: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/info_sht/tv13.htm