CJRO-FM would be allowed broadcast on 107.7 FM in Embrun under the decision.  In Broadcasting Decision 2019-133, the Commission approved an application by the Carlsbad Springs Community Association (CSCA) for a broadcasting licence to operate a French and English language low-power station in Carlsbad Springs with a low-power rebroadcast transmitter in Vars.

UNE VERSION EN FRANÇAIS DE CET ARTICLE A ÉTÉ PUBLIÉ EN PAGE 5 DU REFLET-NEWS DU 19 NOVEMBRE 2020

The new station was to replace the CASC-exempt tourist radio station. According to Commission records, the community radio station and transmitter in Vars had been in operation since January 11, 2020.

While CJRO FM was unable to demonstrate an economic need for the new transmitter, the CRTC found the station had faced unexpected costs during its establishment. The additional revenue from the Embrun market would allow CJRO FM to meet the needs of its listeners, the commission said. 

The CRTC determined the proximity of transmitters in Carlsbad Springs, Vars and Embrun would allow CJRO-FM to provide a community radio service to a combined rural area with common interests and local programming that other radio stations in Ottawa-Gatineau did not offer. As Embrun did not have a local radio service, the addition of the proposed rebroadcast transmitter would provide bilingual local news and information on community events to the community through new tailored programming.

As the Carlsbad Springs Community Association’s (CSCA) application was approved, the transmitter must be in service no later than November 9, 2022.