Ever since the implementation of Bill C-18, 705BLACKFLY.COM has been very vocal about the importance of local journalism. Last week, that issue was the focus of our Beyond Headlines podcast on 88.7 FM The Bay. We discussed the role that local media has in promoting community events and stories that mainstream media does not cover. Quality storytelling is a must in any community, but our voices are being drowned out.
Sadly, Metroland Media Group has announced that it has sought bankruptcy protection and will cease the print publication of its weekly community newspapers across Ontario, moving to an online-only model. That includes the local newspapers in our communities. The move involves 605 layoffs – nearly two-thirds of their workforce.
Ultimately, the survival of local journalism lies with consumers who are willing to read/watch our work and advertise on our platforms. We have said from the beginning that we are concerned about our competitors as well as our own business. We care about telling good stories. We care about making sure that accurate, quality information is disseminated. We care about our community.
We’ve received a lot of positive feedback since we launched a year ago, but the phrase we’ve heard the most is “We need you guys out here.” That sentiment is reflected in our steadily growing readership. We ask that you remember that we – and our independent competitors – are small businesses like any other in our community. We need your support to survive.
Please listen to our podcast and we welcome your input. You can email us at sabina@705BLACKFLY.COM.
