Pierre DesRoches, former executive director of Telefilm Canada, has died of cancer. The veteran broadcaster, who steered the federal agency through a notably fruitful period from 1988 to 1994, passed away on May 24 in Longueuil, QU. He was 75.

In a statement, Telefilm boss Wayne Clarkson praised his predecessor’s work and the Canadian films that were released during his tenure, including Denys Arcand’s Jésus de Montréal, François Girard’s Thirty-two Short Films About Glenn Gould and Atom Egoyan’s Exotica.

‘He was truly an inspirational leader,’ said Clarkson. During that time, Telefilm also contributed to TV shows including E.N.G., Road to Avonlea and North of 60. Prior to joining Telefilm, DesRoches was a VP at Radio-Canada.

He ‘touched the lives of so many, and opened the door to a new generation of directors, actors and other artists,’ added Bev Oda, the heritage minister, in a separate statement. ‘His contribution has made our country stronger and richer, and we deeply appreciate his services.’