Education Minister Sandra Pupatello is denying Opposition charges of political interference in the cancellation of TVOntario's flagship news show, Studio 2.
Conservative leader John Tory suggests the Liberals wanted the popular eight-o'clock current events program cancelled because it was often critical of the government.
Tory says he's sure the Liberals felt discomfort with the outspoken commentary and panel discussions on Studio 2.
But Ms. Pupatello says the Liberal government made "a very special effort not to become involved in programming," which she adds would be inappropriate.
Ms. Pupatello says it's not the role of cabinet ministers to be involved in program decisions at the provincially-owned educational network.
The network was expected to officially announce the cancellation of Studio 2, and make other programming changes, later today.
The government announced earlier Thursday that it will give TVO $10 million over four years to move to digital formats, plus another $15 million over two years for staff training and new equipment.
TVOntario CEO Lisa de Wilde says the changes will usher in a new digital era at the network as it looks to provide programming on the internet and other new media platforms.
"While television will remain an important medium for TVO, the days of defining ourselves as only a broadcaster are past," she said.
In addition, a new independent board of directors will be created to govern TFO, TVOntario's French-language broadcasting network.