Canadian programming is not the burden that broadcasters claim, according to a study released Thursday by groups including ACTRA, the WGC and the DGC.

The groups — citing research from Nordicity Group — argue that large broadcast conglomerates that own both conventional and specialty channels are ‘well-positioned’ to profit from domestic programming.

‘This Nordicity analysis reveals that the broadcasters shouldn’t use Canadian programming as an excuse for gross overspending in Hollywood,’ said ACTRA boss Stephen Waddell in a statement. ‘Canadian programming can pay its own way.’

The study of English-language TV takes aim at arguments often heard this time of year, as broadcasters prepare to buy U.S. programming for fall, and at the CRTC’s licence renewal hearings, which conclude on Monday.

The study notes that Canadian-made shows are often rerun repeatedly, across channels owned by particular networks.

‘We accept the fact that foreign programming is largely more profitable than Canadian programming,’ said Norm Bolen, president and CEO of the CFTPA. ‘But in an environment where broadcasters now receive unlimited plays on multiple channels and platforms while paying minimal licence fees, the suggestion that Canadian content is a financial albatross cannot be taken at face value.’