CPAC, the non-profit broadcaster known for its direct coverage of Canadian political events, is cutting approximately 15 per cent of its workforce and cancelling two flagship programs as it grapples with an “accelerating revenue decline.”
The channel confirmed it is ending PrimeTime Politics and L’Essentiel, while laying off 12 employees, including longtime host Michael Serapio. The decision comes despite a recent funding increase approved by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), which CPAC says is insufficient to offset financial pressures.
President and CEO Christa Dickenson said the organization conducted repeated financial forecasts before concluding that the cuts were unavoidable. She cited an uncertain broadcasting landscape, declining revenues, and delays in modernizing Canada’s broadcasting system as key challenges.
CPAC, which is owned by cable companies, relies primarily on subscription fees from TV providers. However, a sharp decline in traditional television subscribers has significantly impacted its revenue. While earlier projections estimated an 11 per cent drop over five years, losses have accelerated to nearly 25 per cent in a shorter timeframe, creating a substantial funding gap.
The broadcaster is restricted from airing traditional advertising and depends largely on regulated subscriber fees, limiting its ability to diversify revenue streams.
Dickenson emphasized that CPAC will continue to prioritize its core mandate — providing long-form, unfiltered coverage of parliamentary proceedings and political affairs. She noted that the channel has played a key role in offering comprehensive bilingual coverage of major political events, including federal party conventions.
The cuts have drawn concern from federal officials. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne described the layoffs as “very sad,” while Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Marc Miller expressed support for those affected.
CPAC has also criticized the CRTC for delays in implementing a modern funding framework under the Online Streaming Act, arguing that reforms are urgently needed to sustain public-interest broadcasters in a rapidly evolving media environment.
