The head of the CRTC is calling for a rethink of the entire regulatory system, including the status of his own organization

In a speech prepared for the Banff World TV Festival, Konrad von Finckenstein,  Chairman, Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, outlined a number of media industry activities that are dynamically impacted by the new digital economy and emerging media creation and distribution platforms.

In his prepared remarks, von Finckenstein wrote that "Regulatory change is necessary in our new digital world. We need new legislation and a new institutional framework. We cannot make the most of new opportunities when we are limited by the practices and the structures of the past."

Some of those structures of the past include the current analog broadcast system, due to make its change over to digital over-the-air broadcasting at the end of August. Despite related economic costs for the industry, and some confusion that still exists in the marketplace, the CRTC is urging all players to meet the August 31 switchover.

The CRTC Chair says he is still uncertain about the impact of another new distribution structure, called OTT or 'over-the-top' - but there's little argument it is having a profound one already.

OTT programming services offer foreign or domestic programming using broadband Internet connections, by-passing traditional delivery systems like cable or satellite. The programming is often available on a variety of platforms for free or at a minimal cost. The services are not required to contribute to the creation and promotion of Canadian content, although many are commissioning their own unique and exclusive content.

The CRTC is looking a community channel programming, too, and although some new guidelines have been tabled, it is largely a self-regulated arena which many observers feel could have a much stronger role in content creation for local communities.

In his remarks, von Finckenstein also opened the door to speculation about the CRTC itself. "What about the regulator?" he asks. "Is our present CRTC model the best for us?

Should there be fewer Commissioners?"

Not to address those questions directly, the CRTC is nevertheless conducting at least two public consultations currently, and it is accepting submissions or scheduling appearances to address issues like OTT digital media delivery and also Internet pricing schemes.