Minutes, special meeting to discuss CBC licence renewal response

9 a.m. Eastern Sunday, January 16, 2000

Present:
Victoria Fenner, Chair
Chris Brookes,
Andy Posthumous
John Muir 
Hal Doran

Regrets:
Barry Rueger
Philip Coulter

Chris made the following points: little attention paid to radio in all 
this, right-wing papers back new head of CBC so far, independent 
producers can do job for 60% of  in house. BBC Radio now 
required to put radio program proposals out to bid. Result of 
unfortunate cuts there, but now gives independents a chance.

Andy raised concerns about union response to funding for 
independent production. It's agreed this is a legitimate area of 
concern, but we can still proceed carefully with our response. 

Victoria notes Radio Production Fund proposed to CRTC in our 
submission to c/c review last year. No response from CRTC so far. 
She says that Barry has been trying for a year though local Liberal 
MP to arrange a meeting about this with Heritage and Industry 
Canada. Heart attack of key aide last fall slowed process, but now 
back on track.

Chris notes Heritage gave special funding of $100 M to independent 
tv production at CBC, $7 M directly to CBC for radio production.

Victoria notes there are lots of people who would benefit from 
independent fund. John, noting there are many laid off CBC 
producers, concurs. 

Chris says that independent radio producers in U.S. can apply to 
CPB for up to half funding for a production.

John moves, Andy seconds, that Hal write up a draft letter to the 
major papers, to be copied to CBC and CRTC, outlining our views.

Adjourn, 11 a.m. NST.