Ontario Association of Broadcasters represents Ontario private INDEPENDENT broadcasters delivering tangible membership benefits in three areas:
- Government Advocacy
Our Government Relations Committee advocates for members, responding to the CRTC and engaging with policymakers.
Government Relations Committee Activities:
- Responded to Commission calls for comments on license fees, the new broadcasting act, Modernization of radio processes and other long-term policy issues.
- The OAB filed an intervention with the CRTC regarding the Governance of the Canadian Journalism Collective.
- Responded to the call for comments regarding the Canadian Association of Broadcasters’ proposed plan for the operation of a temporary fund supporting local news production by commercial radio stations in smaller markets.
- On October 28th, the CRTC granted Google a five-year exemption under the Online News Act, while requiring the digital giant to pay $100 million to the Canadian Journalism Collective (CJC) within 60 days. This paved the way for Google to contribute $100 million annually to Canadian news organizations through the CJC. The exemption is contingent on certain conditions, including the requirement to allow additional eligible news businesses to join the CJC. The CJC announced in mid-December that it is estimating to pay broadcasters $3.40 per hour claimed from the Goggle Fund.
- Engaging with Government Decision-makers.
- Education and Innovation
On November 7th another successful OAB conference was held in Toronto. CONNECTION 2024 was focused on helping broadcasters bring forth new ideas and information pertaining to the industry. If you attended and were unable to participate in all the sessions, please contact memberservices@oab.ca for access to videos.
There has been consideration to hosting live webinars facilitated by member stations for you and your staff. A wide variety of topics can be supported and suggestions are welcome.
- Collaboration
Actively engaging with the Ontario Association of Broadcasters (OAB) offers significant professional growth opportunities. Serving on committees and the board provides invaluable leadership and management experience. Moreover, collaborating with esteemed broadcasters within the OAB fosters invaluable connections and insights into industry best practices. This peer-to-peer environment allows individuals to exchange ideas, share knowledge, and address common challenges faced by broadcasters. Many OAB members attest to the significant professional development they have achieved through their active participation in the organization.
Administrative Framework
The Association’s affairs are managed by a board of directors, representing radio (large and small markets), television, corporate organizations, and directors at large. The President, Past-President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and Executive Director make up the executive committee. Directors are elected for a two year term. Most of the Association’s work is handled by committees including: conference & awards, education liaison, government, and membership.
The association has never had any permanent staff. From 1960 -1972 the CAB Toronto office provided headquarters for the association when Ruth Hancock served as its Executive Secretary. When Ruth left CAB in 1973, Gerry Acton continued to fill her role until the CAB closed its Toronto office in 1974 and Gerry moved back to Ottawa. The board decided it would like the CAB to continue to act as its central location on a fee for service basis and Gerry was asked to continue in his role as Executive Secretary. When Gerry retired in July 1991 the board requested, and he agreed to continue as the association’s executive director. Following Gerry’s retiring from the OAB, OAB staffing needs were subsequently filled by an administrative company. In January 2006, the Board of Directors hired Valerie Skivington as Executive Director.