The Cancon conundrum: why policies to promote ‘Canadian stories’ need an overhaul

By failing to grapple with the definition of Canadian content, the panel avoids coming to terms with the not-so-secret reality that it's often indistinguishable from foreign location and service production.

In releasing the panel's report, chair Janet Yale says the recommended measures are needed so Canada can 'continue to assert its cultural sovereignty and Canadians can continue to express their identity and culture through content.'The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY MICHAEL GEIST

March 4, 2020

Cultural policy in Canada can be contentious, but there is one issue—support for Canadian content or Cancon—that unsurprisingly enjoys near unanimous backing. Given the economic benefits, federal and provincial policies encourage both domestic and foreign film and television production in Canada...

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Weekend Point of View Newsletter

A round up of the past weekâ€™s opinion writers and columnists on Saturdays and Sundays.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy