CRTC MOVES MDS APPLICATION PROCESS ALONG
By Adnews Staff
The Canadian Radio-television Telecommunication Commission made the details of applications for a new broadcasting technology service in Southern Ontario public last week. Five companies are jockeying for the go-ahead to launch digital Multipoint Distribution System services, touted as a less-expensive alternative to cable. The wireless technology allows broadcasters to send out digital-quality video and audio programming encompassing a wide variety of channels. Public hearings for the applications will be held in Toronto in May, with a CRTC decision expected in late summer. The five applicants are: Multipoint Communications (Barrie) Ltd.; Skycable Ontario Inc., owned by Craig Broadcast Systems Inc.; Look TV, backed by a consortium of Teleglobe Media Enterprises, Baton Broadcasting Inc., C.I. Covington Fund Inc., and Novanet Communications Ltd.; Powertel TV Inc.; and Selectview Cable Services Inc. With the exception of Multipoint Communications, which proposes to broadcast only to the Barrie, Orillia, Gravenhurst and Bracebridge regions, the applications cover most major markets in southern Ontario.