Shaw Communications has signed a multiyear agreement with CTV Sports net to carry the regional sports service launching Oct. 9.

Under the deal, Sportsnet will be distributed by cable to over 90% of Shaw homes.

crtc approval is pending for a Rogers Communications 40% ownership stake in Sportsnet. ctv currently holds 40% in the channel and Fox subsidiary Liberty Media holds 20%.

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Saskatchewan prodco Minds Eye Pictures is opening a tv distrib arm to be headed by Paul Black, former managing director of Great North Releasing.

Minds Eye International will acquire Canadian tv product for international broadcast sales, as well as distribute its proprietary properties, which include the kids’ series The Incredible Story Studio and Mentors.