CBC/Radio-Canada announced the details of its plan to transition from analogue to digital over-the-air television.

According to the statement, CBC/Radio-Canada plans to install digital transmitters in all of the markets in which it produces original television programming, for a total of 27 transmitters. Fifteen of the 27 transmitters will be operational by August 2011, with the remaining twelve to be operational by or before August 2012.

CBC/Radio-Canada will continue to offer analogue service beyond the August 31, 2011 shut-off date established by government in all markets not identified by the CRTC as mandatory for digital transmission. It has also filed a request to the CRTC to allow a temporary extension of analogue service in those markets not slated for transition until after the August 2011 deadline under the Corporation’s plan.

“We believe that our plan is appropriate given our financial challenges, given our mandate, and given industry trends,” said Steven Guiton, Vice President and Chief Regulatory Officer. “When all is said and done, our estimate is that less than 1% of Canadians will need to turn to a cable or satellite provider in order to continue receiving our signal.”

The Broadcasting Act mandates that CBC/Radio-Canada’s services “be made available throughout Canada by the most appropriate and efficient means, as resources become available for the purpose.” Today, Canadians receive CBC/Radio-Canada’s television services through a variety of platforms including over-the-air, cable, satellite and the Internet.

Digital transmitters will be located in the following markets:

By August 31, 2011

(*) Already in operation

By August 31, 2012

For more information visit: www.cbc.ca