APTN to increase Indigenous-language programming with new ‘Languages’ channel

APTN has applied to the CRTC to consolidate its four channels into two, one with English- and French-language programming and the other almost entirely Indigenous-language programming. This proposal comes as part of APTN’s effort to provide viewers with “a more consistent experience,” saying the current multiple feed strategy of APTN North, East, West and HD is not working as well as it could. Right now, all four channels feature a mix of English-, French-, and Indigenous-language programming. It has been difficult for the network to promote its various programs, which all happen at different times, on different feeds, in different languages. Simplifying its feeds into two distinct channels, to be known as APTN and APTN Languages, will not only help with visibility, but also streamline the network’s processes and improve its efficiency. The APTN channel would be based on a single programming schedule and will look similar to how APTN HD looks today. “The service will continue to offer a wide range of programming content in English and French. This will include our news and information programming and an array of other Indigenous-produced and inspired content,” wrote APTN. The network explained that APTN Languages is to be a fully Indigenous-language service that will “provide more hours of Indigenous-language content in more languages on a national scale than APTN has been able to deliver in the past,” noting that, “wherever possible, Indigenous-language programming will be offered with English- or French-language subtitles.” In addition to the several languages to be added to the new channel, all languages should see an increase in airtime by about 163 per cent compared to current levels. APTN North currently offers the most Indigenous-language programming of all of the network’s feeds, but total Indigenous-language content only makes up 35.7 per cent of programming. The proposed schedule for APTN Language’s first year would raise total Indigenous-language content to 93.75 per cent of programming. APTN is also requesting an increase to the wholesale fee it charges distributors. To facilitate the new changes and offset the impact of inflation, APTN is asking to raise its monthly fee per subscriber by 3 cents, from $0.35 to $0.38. “All Indigenous languages in Canada are facing challenges and many are at risk of extinction. This is happening at a time when interest and engagement in Indigenous-language revitalization is growing,” wrote the network. “The broadcasting industry plays a direct role in helping to preserve and revitalize Indigenous languages. In a time when so many Indigenous languages are at risk of extinction, broadcast media is key to validating them and ensuring that they remain part of daily life in our communities.” Subject to the CRTC’s approval, these changes to APTN’s feeds would happen on Sept. 1, 2024. This would coincide with the network’s 25th anniversary and give it time to prepare for the technical switch and programming schedule. –Reporting by Phalen Tynes-MacDonald at pcreed@thewirereport.ca and editing by Paul Park at ppark@thewirereport.ca

APTN to increase Indigenous-language programming with new ‘Languages’ channel

News | July 4, 2023

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APTN to increase Indigenous-language programming with new ‘Languages’ channel

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