In an aggressive pursuit to increase its presence in key markets across Canada, Citytv has signed an affiliate agreement with Saskatchewan Communications Network (SCN), the two networks announced today.

Beginning January 2, Citytv programming will air from 3 p.m. to 5:59 a.m. CST every day, at which time the network will officially be called ‘Citytv on SCN’. Throughout the remainder of the day, the station will be referred to as ‘SCN’, and will continue to air educational and children’s programming, commercial free.

“Early on, we identified Saskatchewan as one of the key markets in which we sought to expand our footprint. This deal allows us to deliver our world-class programming to the entire province and extend the popular Citytv brand,” said Scott Moore, President of Broadcasting, Rogers Media. “Having a dedicated Citytv presence in Saskatchewan gives viewers a more consistent and reliable viewing experience. It also offers the people of Saskatchewan great Canadian programming, which cannot be found on U.S. networks.”

From 3 p.m. to 5:59 a.m. CST, the Citytv on SCN lineup will follow Citytv’s national programming grid, and includes such hits as Terra Nova, New Girl, Modern Family, 30 Rock, Alcatraz, Canada’s No. 1 daytime program, CityLine, and Citytv’s blockbuster original series Canada’s Got Talent, which debuts in March. In addition, local Saskatchewan programming will air post 3 p.m. on Citytv on SCN in mid-2012 leading into the prime Fall television season, and will feature such hit favourites as The Neighbors Dog, 15 Minutes of Fame, and documentaries.

There will not be any changes to SCN’s current educational, children’s and local programming from 6 a.m. to 2:59 p.m. CST, while its commitment to local production also remains intact.

“We’ve always had great respect for Rogers and we’re delighted to be associated with them,” said Bruce Claassen, CEO and Owner, SCN. “Their involvement adds a further level of depth to what SCN can be, and that is to be a major broadcaster in Saskatchewan.”

SCN will continue to operate out of Regina with the current management team and employees.

“We are very pleased to be affiliated with Rogers and Citytv,” said Joanne McDonald, General Manager, SCN. “Citytv has an outstanding schedule. Add that to our world-class local production and educational content, and we have a channel that offers viewers the best programming in the province.”