The Canadian Media Guild welcomes the NDP's commitment to reverse cuts to CBC funding, and to reform Board nomination process

TORONTO, Jan. 22, 2015 /CNW/ - The CMG welcomes the announcement made today by NDP leader Thomas Mulcair of his committment to cancel the $115-million-dollar cut to CBC funding made in 2012, and we applaud his commitment to reforming how the CBC president and board of directors are appointed, making it a more transparent, non-partisan process.

We are also encouraged by the NDP's support for long-term funding, which is essential for the public broadcaster to continue serving Canadians on multiple platforms, providing quality programming in communities across the country.

"We are grateful to Mr. Mulcair for speaking out in support of CBC/ Radio-Canada, the country's largest news organization. This kind of support means CBC can continue to play its role as a valued cultural institution that Canadians can rely on," says Carmel Smyth, National President of the Canadian Media Guild.  

In addition to today's commitment, the union continues to press all political parties to increase CBC's core funding – from $29 a year per Canadian to the world's average of $43 dollars per person –, to better recognize the cost of public broadcasting today.  To maintain journalistic independence, the CMG also urges all political parties to reverse a controversial measure introduced in budget Bill C-60  that opens the door to government interference in CBC's day-to-day operations.

"Mr. Mulcair's announcement is great news. These tangible measures will benefit all Canadians by helping to ensure quality, diverse  programming including local news, in communities across the country," says Marc- Philippe Laurin, President of CMG at CBC.  "Survey after survey has shown that Canadians are asking for an adequately-funded, independent CBC that can fulfill its mandate and serve citizens in this vast country. This is a welcome step in that direction."

About the Canadian Media Guild
We are 6,000 journalists, hosts, producers, technicians, videographers, editors, librarians, programmers, sales reps, administrative staff and freelancers working across Canada. We believe a quality media system that serves all Canadians is built on healthy organizations that treat workers fairly.

SOURCE Canadian Media Guild

Jeanne d'Arc Umurungi, Communications Director, Canadian Media Guild, [email protected], 416-708-4628