PM Carney Reveals Plans for a ‘Thriving’ CBC

Prime Minister Mark Carney announces plans to reform the CBC and will release details soon.

“We understand the importance of supporting the French language in Quebec,” Carney stated during a campaign stop in Montreal on March 28.

He emphasized his commitment to a strong public broadcaster and Radio-Canada, the French arm of CBC, and promised to unveil a reform plan in the coming days.

Carney criticized Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s proposal to defund the CBC, stating that he believes the broadcaster plays a crucial role. Poilievre, however, plans to keep funding Radio-Canada.

Conservatives’ CBC Plan

Poilievre estimates that defunding the CBC would save taxpayers over $1 billion annually. He has also criticized the broadcaster’s perceived bias in its coverage.

On March 26, the Conservatives announced a plan to support Radio-Canada during a campaign event in Quebec City, emphasizing their commitment to preserving its programs.

During a stop in Winnipeg on March 29, Poilievre reassured that the Conservatives will protect the French language.

“We support official bilingualism and will uphold it in all federal services and programs across the country,” Carney stated in response to a reporter.

Liberals Propose Increased Funding for CBC

Carney’s remarks align with Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge’s proposal in February to nearly double government funding for the CBC.

An advisory committee appointed by St-Onge recommended policy changes to enhance CBC/Radio-Canada.

St-Onge proposed increasing per capita funding for CBC to $62.

Currently, CBC receives $1.4 billion in federal funding, but under the Liberal proposal, it would receive $2.6 billion.

St-Onge mentioned that increased funding could lead to the removal of ads from CBC’s platforms, subject to approval by the next leader and financial minister.

Matthew Horwood contributed to this article.