key term - Broadcasting Act of 1990

Definition

The Broadcasting Act of 1990 was a significant piece of legislation in Canada that aimed to regulate and modernize the broadcasting system. It introduced new ownership regulations to promote diversity and competition in media, ensuring that Canadian content was prioritized and accessible to the public. This act set the stage for how broadcasting is managed, helping to shape the media landscape by addressing issues such as ownership concentration and cultural representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Broadcasting Act of 1990 aimed to enhance Canadian content on radio and television by setting specific quotas for local programming.
2. The act also established guidelines for ownership regulations, limiting the number of broadcasting licenses a single entity could hold to prevent media monopolies.
3. It emphasized the importance of cultural diversity in broadcasting, mandating that programming reflect Canada's multicultural society.
4. The act allowed for more competition in the broadcasting sector, encouraging new entrants and independent producers to create diverse content.
5. As part of its regulatory framework, the act empowered the CRTC to enforce compliance with ownership regulations and ensure that broadcasters met their obligations regarding Canadian content.

Review Questions

• How did the Broadcasting Act of 1990 change the landscape of media ownership in Canada?
  • The Broadcasting Act of 1990 introduced regulations that limited how many broadcasting licenses one entity could hold, which was crucial in preventing media monopolies. By establishing these ownership regulations, the act aimed to foster competition and ensure a diverse range of voices in Canadian media. This shift was intended to promote cultural representation and provide more opportunities for independent producers.
• Discuss the implications of CanCon regulations established by the Broadcasting Act of 1990 on Canadian television programming.
  • The CanCon regulations were designed to ensure that a significant portion of broadcast content in Canada was produced locally. This not only supported Canadian artists and creators but also helped shape national identity by promoting stories reflective of Canadian culture. As a result, these regulations have led to an increase in diverse programming, contributing to a richer media landscape that prioritizes homegrown talent.
• Evaluate how the Broadcasting Act of 1990 has influenced contemporary discussions about media concentration and diversity in Canada.
  • The Broadcasting Act of 1990 laid the groundwork for ongoing discussions about media concentration and diversity in Canada by addressing ownership regulations at a time when consolidation was becoming prevalent. Its focus on promoting diverse voices has continued to resonate in current debates over how media ownership impacts public discourse. As new digital platforms emerge, the act's principles remain relevant, emphasizing the need for policies that encourage a varied media landscape while safeguarding against excessive concentration that could undermine democratic values.

Related terms

Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC): The CRTC is a regulatory body responsible for overseeing broadcasting and telecommunications in Canada, ensuring compliance with the Broadcasting Act.

CanCon: Short for Canadian Content, CanCon refers to regulations designed to promote the production and broadcast of Canadian programming on radio and television.

Media Concentration: Media concentration refers to the ownership of multiple media outlets by a single corporation or individual, which can limit diversity in perspectives and information.