Industry Consultation
Principles and Objectives of the CMF’s Consultation Policy
The Canada Media Fund (CMF) consultation policy is based on the principle that the industry consultation process should be meaningful, formal, ongoing and inclusive. The underlying values of the policy include transparency, co-operation, communication, balance and results.
The consultation process includes five objectives:
- Gaining high-level stakeholder input into CMF planning and program development and design
- Being informed of emerging stakeholder issues and priorities
- Making fully informed policy decisions
- Maintaining two-way communication between the CMF and its stakeholders
- Allowing stakeholders to be part of, and understand, the CMF's policy making process
In 2015-2016, the consultation process comprised the following elements:
Cross-country Focus Groups
A total of 20 Focus Groups were held in 18 different cities in all provinces and territories. Focus Groups were used by the CMF to begin a discussion with the industry about what the CMF’s mandate should be in the coming years and how it should position itself as the industry continues to evolve. A framework for a potential new funding model was presented which aims to maximize the impact of the CMF’s programs and leverage its funding, industry intelligence and access and promotion strategies in response to industrial, regulatory and content consumption habit changes in the media marketplace. More than 510 stakeholders took part in these discussions.
Working Groups and Advisory Committee
The working groups and advisory committee, comprised of representatives with a particular interest in the topic covered, were employed to delve more deeply into issue-based, program-related topics: Performance Envelopes, Experimental Stream, Eligible Licence Fees and Other Rights, Other Issues pertaining to Content Financing and Distribution and Digital Media Measurement Framework were the topics discussed during these meetings.
Industry leaders Round Table
CMF initiated a round table meeting with top industry leaders that do not attend the regular consultation open forum meetings. This provided an opportunity for a candid discussion and frank exchange. This meeting was to consider current obstacles in the system to future growth, discuss strategic ideas and a future vision for the industry.
Individual meetings
The CMF representatives also met with different groups of stakeholders who had specific issues to raise with the CMF regarding their particular challenges.
Written submissions
Although written submissions were not contemplated as part of the initial consultation plan, CMF received over 20 written submissions from stakeholders (industry groups and unions, as well as individuals).
Online Consultation
The CMF website’s consultation page allows stakeholders to access to all consultation information and documents.
Stakeholders’ active and valuable participation throughout all phases of the consultation process demonstrates the industry’ interest in taking part in the evolution of the CMF’s policies and programs.