Mr. Speaker, in February, the CRTC asked the parties for their comments and observations with respect to policies for community television channels.
Television in the 21st century offers viewers an endless number of channels, with programming of national and international interest.
However, community television has always been a voice for the local community. As the voice of the people, it has reflected the interests, culture and needs of a community that wants to be heard. Since 1998, cable companies have no longer been required to support community channels.
Today is the deadline for submitting comments to the CRTC. I add my voice to that of all the parties, including the Fédération des télévisions communautaires autonomes du Québec, in order to emphasize the importance of introducing policies which will guarantee the survival and financial independence of community television channels throughout Canada.