New Democrats salute 75 years of excellence at CBC

OTTAWA – New Democrats today marked the 75th Anniversary of the CBC by joining with citizens from coast to coast to coast in celebrating the proud history and reaffirming the bright future of a distinctly Canadian public broadcaster.

On behalf of all New Democrats, Official Opposition Heritage Critic Tyrone Benskin (Jeanne-Le Ber) congratulated the Corporation’s management, staff, supporters and all the talented creators and artists who have helped contribute to this impressive milestone.

“Since its inception in 1936, CBC has represented the vision and the voice that is Canada. Their achievement in unifying the diversity of people and the vastness of this nation as well as bringing together the linguistic dualism and cultural plurality which define us is nothing short of incredible,” said Mr. Benskin.

“As recently as last week, CBC reported to Parliament on the impressive progress they’ve made to expand local news service, drive domestic production of original Canadian programming, protect minority language communities and digitize content while remaining fiscally transparency and accountable to taxpayers,” continued Mr. Benskin.

However, he cautioned vigilance in response to a concerted campaign to defund the national institution. “We have a Government circulating defunding petitions and irresponsible calls for CBC’s complete or partial elimination,” explained Mr. Benskin.

New Democrats have pressed the government for stable investments in arts and culture, including CBC. Canadian cultural industries add about 85 billion annually into the Canadian economy.

“Unlike the present Government,” Benskin concluded, “New Democrats will stand by our commitment to support Canada’s vital arts and cultural sector, including seeing the CBC through its next 75 years.”