Canadian Heritage committee  I have three quick points. On the part II question, I think the distinction is that the contribution to the CTF is a condition of licence rather than a fee paid to a government agency. I see that as a difference. On the minister being engaged in dialogue, I absolutely agree. It's a critical step in this process.

Canadian Heritage committee  As I said earlier, the concept of exchanging ideas and dialogue around better ways to engage in Canadian production is always welcome. Absolutely, from our perspective, there need to be some parameters around any kind of funding, because the commercial interests of the largest players are not always in alignment with the cultural priorities of the industry.

Canadian Heritage committee  I think we're fortunate to have elected officials to govern and to review the performance of government. The minister is in an incredibly difficult position. The government's commitment to fund the CTF sends a very strong message that this is an important process. At the same time, as Mr.

Canadian Heritage committee  There are many levels to the government, and when I'm saying the government, I'm speaking to all those levels. The CRTC has a role here. The governing party has a role here. The opposition, this committee, has a role here, and I'm very pleased to see action is in fact being taken.

Canadian Heritage committee  Unfortunately, I'm employed by S-Vox and not able to offer legal advice to this committee. So with that caveat, again, for me, the reality is that this industry is incredibly complex. There are a variety of stakeholders, and they all need to work together and they need to find ways to work together.

Canadian Heritage committee  I'm always fascinated by the fact that we have a variety of different agencies involved in this industry and a variety of stakeholders and we set different priorities. To some extent, as a broadcaster, I look to the CRTC for leadership in identifying what the key cultural objectives are for the system.

Canadian Heritage committee  To add to that, the concept of stability for the fund isn't just about the short term. It is very much about thinking long term and looking for long-term solutions. There are two parts to that. The industry has been seeking long-term commitments from the government, whichever government it may be.

Canadian Heritage committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair, members of the committee. My name is Brant Kostandoff. I am general counsel for the S-Vox Trust, Canada's foremost provider of multimedia content exploring the human spirit. The flagship property of S-Vox is VisionTV, a national specialty television service that for almost 20 years has been celebrating the diversity of faiths and cultures that are fundamental to Canada's social fabric.