OTTAWA, March 22, 2017 /CNW/ - Today's federal budget outlines a number of priorities developed to support Canada's creative entrepreneurs, strengthen the country's media production sector, and bring the best of Canada to the world. The Canadian Media Producers Association and its members applaud these initiatives and the government's renewed commitment to investment in the cultural sector. 

Modernization of the Broadcasting Act and Telecommunications Act

The CMPA looks forward to assisting the government, as needed, with the announced review of the Broadcasting Act and the Telecommunications Act. This review presents an opportunity to update Canada's regulatory system to support creators and help bring the amazing content produced by Canadians to audiences at home and around the world.

"Evolving technology has allowed Canadians to access content through a vast number of new digital channels. Modernization of the Broadcasting Act and the Telecommunications Act must ensure that Internet Service Providers, wireless services, and Over-The-Top platforms contribute to the growth and success of the Canadian production sector from which they benefit," said Reynolds Mastin, President and CEO, CMPA. 

"In addition, this review presents a unique opportunity to enact legislation that will enable content producers to negotiate and retain rights to Canadian independent programming, so they are able to take even greater creative risks and fund production of their next great piece of content. Ultimately this review has the potential to grow Canada's creative sector, and create well-paying jobs across the country."

Other Measures

The budget outlines a number of additional initiatives that will assist Canada's creative entrepreneur's cultural leaders, and help build an inclusive and innovative country. These include:

• Updates to Canada's intellectual property regime, aimed at creating a framework that supports innovation across all sectors of the economy
• A commitment to support Canadian innovators through streamlined programs aimed at providing efficient access to relevant innovation services
• A commitment of an additional $1.8 billion cultural sector investment over 10 years starting in 2018–19

About the CMPA

The Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) is the country's leading member-based advocacy organization for independent producers, representing hundreds of companies engaged in the development and distribution of English-language content made for television, cinema and digital media channels. The CMPA works to promote the continued success of the Canadian production sector and ensure a future for diverse content made by Canadians for both domestic and international audiences.

SOURCE Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA)

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