A company called "3305670 Nova Scotia" (but which is actually part of Ethnic Chanels group, located in Markham) has applied to the CRTC for a new national pay audio service, featuring 68 different channels.

What would they do? According to the CRTC release:

"The applicant proposes to devote approximately 43% of its programming to content category 2 (Popular Music) music selections derived from a variety of genres, including pop, rock, dance and easy listening.

The remainder of the programming would include oldies (7%); instrumental (11%); specialty music, including classical, world, jazz, blues and opera (36%); and programming directed to children (3%).

In addition to English- and French-language channels, the service will offer a minimum of nine third-language channels." 

I doubt it would give the existing giant a Sirius run for its money (especially if the government tries to force CanCon into the mix) but it would also depend a lot on price and receivers. The proposal will be considered when the Commission meets on a host of other applications in Gatineau on May 11th.

Pay audio application