Public and private broadcasters have come together in yet another effort to win fee-for-carriage from Ottawa. CTV, its A channels, Global Television and the CBC unveiled a joint, national campaign looking to ‘set the record straight’ regarding their ongoing squabble with cable and satellite companies, with an eye on this fall’s CRTC hearings.

‘We are concerned that Canadians are being misinformed by cable and satellite companies, specifically about the additional costs these companies are choosing to unnecessarily pass onto our viewers,’ said Global SVP Charlotte Bell in a statement.

The campaign, billed as ‘Local TV Matters’, calls on the public to contact Heritage Minister James Moore and their members of parliament, suggesting that ‘cable and satellite companies should pay for the signals they distribute.’ Contact information for the CRTC is also provided.

Cable and satellite outfits oppose the fees, and have pledged to pass any additional costs on to the consumer if fee-for-carriage becomes a reality.

The CRTC has turned down broadcasters twice on the controversial issue, but is set to hold further hearings in December.