Date: May 11, 1993
Author: Jean-Maurice Olivier, Manager, Correspondence and Complaints Branch, CRTC
Addressed to: Valentina Krčmar, Director, Mothers for Peace – Bedem Ljubavi (Toronto Chapter)
View the Original Letter: krcmar book 2_Part91-14.pdf
About This Letter
This letter, dated May 11, 1993, marks an important moment in Mothers for Peace’s campaign against the TVOntario program “Between the Lines.” Sent by Jean-Maurice Olivier of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), it confirms that Krčmar’s formal complaint had been escalated to an official review process by Canada’s broadcasting regulator.
Olivier acknowledges receipt of Krčmar’s letter objecting to TVO’s April 1, 1993 broadcast and outlines the steps being taken to investigate:
“At the outset, I should explain that the Broadcasting Act holds broadcasters clearly accountable for anything they choose to air. The Commission, as a matter of practice, responds to written complaints by forwarding complaint letters to the broadcaster and asking it to reply to the concerns raised.”
The letter explains that TVO has been ordered to respond within two weeks and provide a copy of its reply to the CRTC, ensuring transparency and accountability.
“Accordingly, by copy of this letter, I am asking TVO to respond directly to your concerns within two weeks and to send a copy of this reply to the Commission for follow-up purposes.”
Olivier also confirms that a tape of the broadcast has been requested and preserved for review — a key step in ensuring that the program’s content could be properly assessed for fairness, accuracy, and potential bias.
“I have also asked that a tape of the broadcast in question be held. Once a review of this material is completed, the Commission will decide if further regulatory action is required.”
While neutral in tone, this correspondence underscores the impact and persistence of Krčmar’s advocacy. Through her continued letters to media outlets, government ministries, and parliamentary offices, she succeeded in prompting a federal investigation into how the Bosnian War was represented on Canadian television.
Her actions demonstrate not only a defense of truth and dignity for the victims of the war but also a broader fight against misinformation and moral indifference in Western media.
