There are all kinds of regulations that apply not only to broadcasters, but also cable operators. These regulations seriously penalize the Canadian undertakings that create jobs, get Canadians working and contribute heavily to funding Canadian television and culture.
You are probably aware of the fact that Canadian cable operators play a major role in providing funding for television. Some of the people who spoke ahead of me addressed the issue of cord cutting, or unsubscribing from cable. Cable operators are losing customers because they are subject to regulations in various areas, including basic cable service. No foreign companies are subject to this. This has accelerated the cord cutting phenomenon. The end result Is that there is currently no money for the Canada Media Fund, which helps to finance Canadian undertakingsxx.
Basic service is one aspect. As for broadcasting funding, I'll give you an instance of this. One might wonder how such a thing might still exist, but to give you an example, there are people who time the length of audience applause during programs to determine whether or not broadcasters can get a tax credit. This was something that used to be done when awarding a licence, or a privilege, but it no longer exists. Now, distribution is over the Internet.
Luc Perreault, a colleague I know well and have a lot of time for, spoke earlier about an Internet regulation exemption. How could Parliament regulate the Internet and determine what is accessible? It could certainly be done under the provisions of the Criminal Code, but that's different kettle of fish. How could one ever attempt to regulate the Internet, including companies like Netflix and Disney+?
Ms. Noss, who spoke earlier, mentioned the important role now being played by American—most of them are American—companies with respect to streaming. We too made efforts. There was Club illico, but as you probably know, it was subject to the goods and services tax, the GST, and the Quebec sales tax, the TVQ, while the foreign streaming companies were not. This question was shunted aside by discussing a Netflix tax.
I believe that Parliament needs to shoulder its responsibilities. Otherwise, by the end of this year, Canadian industry and culture—and Quebec culture in particular—will be seriously affected.