CBC Fights Court Order to Disclose Gem Subscriber Numbers NOW

UPDATE: CBC/Radio-Canada is taking urgent legal action to keep its Gem streaming service subscriber numbers confidential. The public broadcaster has filed an application in Federal Court to contest a ruling mandating the disclosure of these sensitive commercial figures.

The Information Commissioner ordered CBC to reveal the number of paid subscribers following an access-to-information request. CBC/Radio-Canada President Marie-Philippe Bouchard emphasized to The Canadian Press that this data is crucial for maintaining competitive advantage in a market filled with both foreign and domestic streaming services.

Bouchard stated, “The subscriber numbers are sensitive commercial information,” underscoring that their confidentiality is vital for ongoing negotiations, particularly regarding bundling Gem with other platforms. She added, “We’re uncomfortable with the interpretation of this ruling.”

Earlier today, CBC argued that disclosing subscriber numbers could undermine its competitive position. According to the Information Commissioner’s final report, while CBC identified potential harms, it failed to establish a reasonable expectation of those harms occurring beyond mere speculation.

The commissioner, Caroline Maynard, noted that while the subscriber data relates to CBC’s programming activities, it also impacts its general administration, thus nullifying the exemption to disclosure. Bouchard highlighted that this ruling contradicts the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s views on what constitutes sensitive commercial data.

CBC launched Gem in 2018, offering both a free version and a paid subscription at $5.99 per month. The paid service includes ad-free streaming and access to CBC’s 24-hour news channel. However, Bouchard clarified, “Paid subscribers are not what makes Gem; the service is primarily free.”

In its legal notice, CBC seeks to overturn the Information Commissioner’s order, asserting that the Gem records should remain exempt from public disclosure. The organization contends that it operates in a highly competitive environment, with numerous broadcasters and streamers vying for audience attention and market share.

This developing story highlights the ongoing tensions between government transparency and commercial confidentiality in the digital media landscape. As CBC navigates this legal battle, the implications for its business model and competitive strategy remain to be seen.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.