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 on Monday unveiled a joint, national campaign looking to ‘set the record straight’ regarding their ongoing and increasingly public 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 James Moore, the heritage minister, and their members of parliament, suggesting the message that ‘cable and satellite companies should pay for the signals they distribute.’ Contact information for the CRTC is also provided.

The health of local television stations has become central to the debate over fee-for-carriage, following recent closures and sell-offs at CTV and Global Television.

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 November.