Delta Mayor George Harvie is going to bat for local media organizations who have been hit hard financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Late Thursday afternoon, the City of Delta posted a letter on its website that Harvie sent to Premier John Horgan.
In the letter Harvie says as the province works on its economic recovery during and following the COVID-19 pandemic, to consider the vital role that local media plays in our communities and our democracy.
“Local media, primarily newspapers, have struggled for many years due to the rise of social media and the disintegration of advertising based business models. Unfortunately, these pillars of democracy and community vitality are now suffering even more acutely as a result of the pandemic,” said Harvie. “Local businesses, which are the prime source of revenue for local newspapers, are struggling like never before. Without advertising revenue from these businesses, the essential service provided by local media, may not survive this crisis. Without local media, our democratic institutions will be severely weakened - the fourth estate is vital for a vibrant democracy.
“We ask that you include consideration for local media in provincial stimulus and recovery funding. Please contact me at [email protected] to discuss how we can work together to support local media companies through this difficult time.”
