CBC won’t disclose Eurovision costs as memo says Ottawa can’t order it to take part

OTTAWA — CBC/Radio-Canada won’t disclose how much participating in the Eurovision song contest could cost.

A government document, obtained through access to information law, says information about other countries is limited but total costs ranged from about $400,000 for Portugal to $1.5 million for Israel in 2025.

The Canadian Heritage document also says that because the Broadcasting Act guarantees CBC’s independence, there is no way for the government to direct CBC to participate in the song contest.

The 2025 federal budget said the government would work with CBC to explore participating in Eurovision and Prime Minister Mark Carney announced earlier this month Canada will take part in the global cultural event next year.