Official Opposition statement on World Press Freedom Day

NDP Heritage critic Pierre Nantel (Longueuil–Pierre-Boucher) made the following statement today in support of World Press Freedom Day, which takes place on May 3rd:

“New Democrats celebrate World Press Freedom Day—to honour the essential work of journalists and media outlets who defend democratic principles and freedom of expression around the world.

“This is also an opportunity to pay tribute to those journalists who have lost their lives, and to those who have been detained or tortured, because they dared to continue their work in the face of repressive regimes.

“Although obstacles to press freedom take different forms around the world, they should never be taken lightly—even here in Canada.

“The Conservative government’s recent cuts to CBC/Radio-Canada have made it harder for journalists to carry out their work. Over the last several years, our government has also taken aim at our public broadcaster’s independence—another crucial aspect of press freedom.

“In support of the CBC and to celebrate World Press Freedom Day, NDP members will wear orange pins today in the House. More than 20,000 Canadians have also signed the NDP’s petition to stop cuts to CBC/Radio-Canada.

“The NDP strongly supports the principle of press freedom and urges the government to do the same, by committing to protecting and promoting this precept at home and around the world.”