Canada: Opened consultation on CRTC regulatory policy for the distribution of described video and audio description

On 25 June 2024, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) opened a public consultation on the proposed regulatory policy for the distribution of described video and audio descriptions until 26 August 2024. The policy, part of the Online Streaming Act (formerly Bill C-11), aims to ensure barrier-free access to programming for Canadians who rely on described video and audio description. The CRTC seeks to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessing programming for persons who are blind or partially sighted. The consultation aims to gather information on the availability and quality of described video and audio description, reporting and compliance measures, complaint-handling processes, and how to enhance the involvement of blind and partially sighted communities in policy development.