'No rules whatsoever': Netflix should be subject to same regulations as broadcasters, industry veteran argues

Astral Media says that foreign, internet-based competitors like Netflix should be subject to the same rules and regulations that apply to Canadian broadcasters.

Astral CEO Ian Greenberg says digital competitors currently don't contribute to local programming or pay taxes. "They don't spend a penny," he said in a speech. "They don't have any rules whatsoever."

Companies like Netflix fail to employ Canadians, Ian says, and do not benefit our economy in their current state. Astral isn't alone in its belief either—most Canadian broadcasters have pressured the CRTC to do something about the situation. The CRTC controversially exempted new media services delivered over the internet and mobile devices from regulation three years ago. 

Netflix has over one million subscribers in Canada.