Konrad von Finckenstein ended his 5-year term as the Chairperson of the CRTC on January 24th. This ushered in acting-chair Leonard Katz, who at the recent Canadian Telecom Summit really came prepared and with all sorts of stats. He seemed incredibly focused on proving he was fit enough lead the CRTC into the future. Not knowing to much about the politics of our Canadian political system, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that Jean-Pierre Blais will become the Chair of the CRTC effective June 18, 2012. Blais previously held positions at the Treasury Board and the Department of Canadian Heritage will be in the position for 5 years and hopefully bring clarity and direction to the CRTC.
Harper stated that “Mr. Blais is well qualified for the position of Chairperson of the CRTC. He brings a strong legal background and a comprehensive understanding of the broadcasting and telecommunications sectors and the role of the CRTC, having held high-level positions at the Treasury Board Secretariat, the Department of Canadian Heritage and the CRTC. I wish him all the best as he takes on the challenges of his new role.”
