OTTAWA – Shaw Communications Inc. is looking for CRTC approval to carry on a digital basis USA Network, a popular U.S. channel that broadcasts blockbuster theatrical movies.
At the same time, Shaw is asking the commission to change the way foreign TV channels are put on the list of non-Canadian services eligible for carriage in Canada.
The cableco wants the CRTC to automatically approve all general interest non-Canadian services, and to allow distributors to carry channels on the eligible lists on either an analog or digital basis. Specifically, Shaw wants the commission to remove section C from the lists and move any channels listed there to section B.
Shaw noted in its application that the regulator could consider the addition of USA Network to the lists before looking at its proposed amendments.
Hence, the CRTC on Friday called for comments on the addition of USA Network – which Shaw contends isn’t competitive with any Canadian pay or specialty TV services – to the digital lists under the existing policy (Broadcasting Public Notice 2007-29).
The commission stated in the notice that it would consider Shaw’s proposed policy amendments in a future proceeding.
Comments on Shaw’s USA Network proposal must be filed with the CRTC by April 25.
