OTTAWA, Feb. 17, 2012 /CNW/ - "Bell Media is trying to boost its already profitable bottom line on the backs of those who have helped make the company the success it is," says Dave Lewington, National Representative with the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada. "Today's announcement that approximately 20 full-time and 15 part-time jobs will be cut at CJOH-TV has completely devastated employees," he says.
"We entered contract negotiations on Wednesday with Bell Media who told us they would be relying on new technology and a different way of making television to achieve staff reductions.
"This is a huge shock to our members and their families. They are devastated," says Lewington. "More than half the employees have 20 years' service at CJOH-TV, and for some this is the second time they have been laid off in their career."
Bell Media operates two television stations and four radio stations in Ottawa. CJOH-TV is the market leader in terms of profits. Today's announcement follows the layoff of 16 non-union managers and radio employees last week. In 2009, the company scaled back CHRO-TV by cutting news programming, and closing its Pembroke station, resulting in 34 layoffs.
"We still have collective agreements to negotiate here and at six other locations in Ontario," says Lewington. "The company is also tabling concession demands in benefits and pensions."
David Lewington, CEP National Representative, 1-905-767-3649
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