Rogers Media to launch new multilingual channel
By Adnews Staff
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission has granted a licence to Rogers Media to operate a new national, multilingual and multi-ethnic television channel. The channel will debut in September 2020 with programming in 20 languages, replacing the existing Rogers Omni Regional television service. It will be includes as part of all digital basic television packages nationally. Programming will be provided through four feeds that will service British Columbia, the prairies, Ontario and Atlantic Canada, and Quebec. Rogers won the licence in a competitive process involving eight applicants.
“Canadians require access to high-quality local news and programming from a Canadian viewpoint in various languages,” said Ian Scott, chairperson and CEO of the CRTC. “Being able to watch content in one's mother tongue adds a sense of belonging for many, enables participation in civic affairs and our democracy and helps ensure that Canada's diversity is reflected in our broadcasting system.”