Cuts will hurt local news: CAJ

OTTAWA , Jan. 21 /CNW/ - The Canadian Association of Journalists is deeply concerned by announcements this week by Transcontinental Media and Rogers-owned City-TV that will result in the layoffs of dozens of journalists covering local news in markets across the country.

The cuts, affecting Transcontinental newspapers in the Maritimes and City-TV stations nationwide, cannot but have a negative impact on the quality of news and information available to Canadians.

CAJ president Mary Agnes Welch is available to comment on the cuts and the CAJ's ongoing concern over the loss of media jobs -- more than 2,000 in recent years -- across Canada .

The CAJ is Canada's largest professional organization for journalists from all media, representing about 1,100 members across Canada . The CAJ's primary roles are to provide high-quality professional development for members and public-interest advocacy.

For further information: Mary Agnes Welch, CAJ president, [phone], [phone]; John Dickins, CAJ executive director, [phone]