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The CRTC tabled 17 broadcasting applications, including ones to launch new sports services, ones for high-definition channels, and ones for broadcast distribution undertakings (BDUs).
The CBC applied for a licence to operate a national English-language Category 2 specialty TV service known as CBC SportsPlus, which will carry programming dedicated to the coverage and celebration of Canadian athletes, with a particular focus on amateur ones. Rogers, meanwhile, applied to transfer the licence of the previously approved Sportsnet 2 to a numbered company. The service will be devoted to covering cricket, soccer, and rugby.
High Fidelity applied to add two more HD channels to its line-up. Diversion HD will feature post-pay exhibition window, non-independent feature films, and related content such as interviews, analysis and "behind the scenes" programming. Canada HD Network will be a general interest service providing programming from a variety of genres, all in true HD.
Two companies are also seeking licences to operate Class 1 terrestrial distribution undertakings. One of them seeks permission to operate a BDU serving the Greater Toronto Area. It will deliver the service over an ADSL2 and VDSL network and hopes to have 33,000 subscribers by the end of its seventh year.
TBayTel submitted the second BDU application. It wants to operate a distribution undertaking in its home territory of Thunder Bay and the surrounding area. In another application by the company, it seeks a licence to operate a VOD service, which will consist mainly of feature films, but may also include children's programming, music videos, short films, TV shows and third-language programming.
Source: Tech Media Reports, 05/13/2008
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