WINNIPEG – The Canadian Association of Broadcasters says COVID-19 could force radio and television stations to close.

Up to 40 local TV outlets and as many as 200 radio stations might have to shut down over the next few years because of financial pressures caused by the pandemic.

The CAB says advertising revenues in radio and TV are expected to take a billion dollar hit by the end of 2022.

The Canadian Radio/Television and Telecommunications Commission is being called on to take swift action.