The CRTC has launched an online survey as part of its review of commercial radio, soliciting comments from Canadians on their radio listening habits, behaviours and views.
The review follows the commission’s report Harnessing Change: The Future of Programming Distribution in Canada, which found that an increasing number of Canadians are streaming audio content on digital platforms.
Among other questions, the online survey asks respondents to rank the importance of commercial radio, alongside CBC/Radio-Canada, podcasts, music streaming, and satellite radio; and asks how frequently and on what types of devices listeners are accessing audio. It also dives in to how the commercial radio experience could be improved, including gauging support for Canadian content rules and whether respondents would support or oppose imposing Canadian content quotas on services like Spotify and Apple Music.
The CRTC survey is also investigating whether Canadians have concerns about ownership concentration, with five radio ownership groups controlling over 65% of commercial radio revenues in 2018.
The commission says the results of the survey will help it better understand how the industry “can meet the needs and interests of Canadians in both official languages” and how best to update regulations to ensure commercial radio remains competitive in a digital environment.
“Radio is an important source of news, information and entertainment for Canadians. They spend close to 15 hours per week tuning in to traditional radio, as well as listening to a multitude of digital platforms. As technology evolves, we invite Canadians to tell us about their expectations and experiences regarding commercial radio stations. This will help us ensure that their needs are reflected in the programming, as well as support the work of Canadian artists and broadcasters,” Ian Scott, CRTC Chairperson and CEO, said in a release.
Canadians are encouraged to complete the survey by Nov. 26.
Comments can also be submitted by Feb. 1, 2021, using one of the following methods:
- filling out the online form
- writing to the Secretary General, CRTC, Ottawa, Ontario K1A ON2, or
- sending a fax to 819-994-0218.
The CRTC says it’s conducted the same survey with a sample of Canadians who are statistically representative of the population. The proceeding will also include the record from the review of French-language vocal music initiated in 2015.
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