TV networks win battle with cable companies, consumers may pay bigger bills

Canadian TV networks have won their battle to seek payment from cable and satellite companies for the right to carry broadcast signals.

But the federal broadcast regulator says before negotiations can get going, it wants the Federal Court of Appeal to rule on whether the new system is legally sound.

The CRTC says the networks can even choose to withhold their signals from a cable company if negotiations go bust.

The traditional TV networks have seen their books slide into the red over the past few years, while the cable sector has seen consistently climbing profits.

Cable providers have warned that if they have to pay more, they will pass the cost on to consumers.

Heritage Minister James Moore has the right to overturn the commission’s decision.

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