Qatar-based network approved for distribution in Canada
Tired of the CBC and CTV? How about Al Jazeera English for a change? On Thursday, the CRTC approved Al Jazeera English—the English language wing of the Qatar-based broadcaster—for satellite distribution in Canada, clearing the path for Al Jazeera to make its way into Canadian homes. The CRTC decision comes despite concern from the Canadian Jewish Congress and B’nai Brith Canada about the balance of Al Jazeera’s reporting. The groups are asking the government to be on the watch for anti-Semitic statements on the Al Jazeera network. But Ethnic Channels Group Ltd., the satellite service that made the initial request to the CRTC, points out that
Al Jazeera English has been up and running with a good track record since 2006, and now is broadcast in more than 100 countries.