Viewers looking for more access to first-run network shows on Canwest’s Global and E! can now be appeased. A deal between Canwest and Rogers will provide them with free access to over 60 hours of programming, at any time, via Rogers On Demand.

As of Oct. 15, Rogers Digital Cable customers will be able to catch shows like House, Heroes, The Office, 24, The Guard, Bones, Prison Break, Family Guy and E! True Hollywood Story any time they want. Two new shows, Knight Rider and My Own Worst Enemy, as well as daytime soaps The Young and the Restless and Days of our Lives can also be viewed on demand. Programming from three Canwest specialty channels (HGTV, Food Network and National Geographic Channel) is already available on Rogers On Demand.

The agreement marks the first time in Canada that a full roster of network programming will be available through a VOD service. The Global and E! shows will become accessible after their original airdates.

There is currently no advertising on VOD services. The question of whether or not BDUs (Broadcast Distribution Undertaking) should have access to ad revenues from on-demand services was a discussion topic at the CRTC’s public hearings in Gatineau, Quebec, on April 8, 2008.