Mr. Chair, I believe there are two ways to look at public television. Obviously, you have a simple yardstick, the ratings. This is one yardstick.
Having worked for the CBC, I honestly believe that this is not a yardstick appropriate for public television, which has a role it must play. It must be serve as a model. It must be the outlet through which Canadian dramas can be seen, produced and also distributed across Canada. Public television must also maintain a presence in the regions. This is why it was said a moment ago that it is important to re-examine the CBC's strategic plan. The goal is to ensure this regional presence.
Indeed, public television must have ratings, of a qualitative nature, however. This is the only television that must broadcast regional news, but also international news, public affairs telecasts, shows for children. Its mandate is quite specific. We must ensure that public television abides by this mandate and that the relevant ratings are based on qualitative factors.
I always said, when I was with the CBC, that the important thing for public television is that each viewer must watch public television and say: “Today, I have seen something new and I have learned something”.
For instance, a show like H2O , written and produced by Paul Gross, is fantastic. It can be seen on public television and it is its role to show and distribute it. This my idea of public television.
I honestly believe that a country like ours owes it to itself to have public television that is strong and also well funded.