Channel Zero Inc. has agreed to purchase CHCH-TV in Hamilton and CJNT-TV in Montreal from Canwest. This deal ensures the continued operation and local
focus of both stations and the employment of all current employees.
Channel Zero understands the importance of these stations to their immediate and extended markets and will build on the strengths of both stations to create a strong regional and national presence. CHCH-TV, a leader in news programming, will broadcast all news/all day with well known movie favourites in the evening. CJNT-TV will broadcast both original foreign movies
and multicultural music videos, with vibrant, fresh multicultural hosts.
"We are excited to have CHCH-TV and CJNT-TV join the Channel Zero team," said Cal Millar V.P. and General Manager, Channel Zero. "By enhancing and
energizing the format and focusing on what each station does best, we know that both stations will be national leaders in their format, will have huge
appeal to their core audiences and will be very advertiser friendly."
"We are committed to high definition programming on these stations and have aggressive high definition expansion plans," said Romen Podzyhun,
President and CEO, Channel Zero Inc. "HD will keep the stations on the leading edge and will enhance the experience for both viewers and advertisers."
Conditions of the sale include Canwest securing an extension of CHCH's collective agreement with the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union
and purchase approval from the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission. A purchase price has not been disclosed.
Channel Zero intends to file applications with the CRTC requesting approval for the transfer of control of the station's licences under terms and conditions substantially similar to those contained in the current licences.