CRTC gives green light to Catholic TV plan

By ART BABYCH
Canadian Catholic News
Ottawa

In a decision handed down Nov. 17, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) approved the application of St. Joseph Corp. on behalf of Salt and Light, which is also to be incorporated and acquire the assets of the floundering specialty service network. The CRTC's approval gives a green light to the proposed Canadian Catholic television network, with Basilian Father Thomas Rosica as CEO.

Inner Peace TV was launched in July 2002, but the CRTC noted that it is not profitable and is not expected to show a profit in the foreseeable future. It also pointed to the applicant's statements that the service may be more successful if it is operated as part of a charitable organization such as the Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation.

"Such an organization would have the ability to derive operational support from the clergy of the Catholic Church and the Catholic laity, ensuring that Inner Peace would have the operational and financial resources necessary to continue to meet its programming obligations," said the CRTC.

"Accordingly, the commission finds that the proposed transaction does not compromise the integrity of the licensing process."

Salt and Light TV already bills itself on its website as "Canada's Catholic Network" and "Catholic Television for the Soul."

It says a Canadian Catholic television network is needed not only to access "quality Catholic programming" but also to develop "a new tool for evangelization, improving our knowledge of our faith; a platform to connect the Church to its faithful; a place of retreat and faith connection for all Catholics; and a new source of Catholic content to be shared with the world."

The foundation added, "Canadians will continue to watch hockey or their favourite sitcom, but also need the opportunity to access Catholic programming that can bring them closer to their faith."

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops has given its blessing to the endeavour.

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