NCCAR on Al-Jazeera English: Published
New perspective on Arab world
May 11, 2010
Re: Al Jazeera English on the air in Canada, May 4
Your article only cited initial “opposition by Canadian Jewish organizations.” However, it should have also mentioned the overwhelming support by several organizations and individuals for the CRTC to approve Al Jazeera English. The CRTC received 2,600 comments in favour of approval compared to 40 comments in opposition.
Canadians now have access to Al Jazeera English’s quality news and discussion services, giving them useful and different perspectives on world events, which are not available on other Canadian or foreign channels found in Canada. That means better informed and engaged Canadian citizens who can benefit from freedom of expression that is essential for a free, pluralistic and democratic society. This means the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds subject only to necessary restriction provided by the law.
We believe that Al Jazeera English will significantly improve Canadians’ understanding of current events as well as economic and social developments in the Arab world. This will help promote better ties and co-operation between Canadians and the people of the Arab world — a goal that we actively support.
Posted on May 14, 2010