CBC receives cross-party criticism for cancelling newscasts during peak pandemic

The CBC has received cross-party criticism for decisions they made during the pandemic. This was due to the fact that they cancelled local TV suppertime newscasts for the first time since 1952, according to Blacklock's Reporter.

The CBC suspended these newscasts in 13 local markets. The CBC's entire purpose is to inform Canadians of vital news, particularly in a crucial time like the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I cannot stress how short-sighted this would be in our province given our reliance on local news," said one former Liberal MP. Having said that, the CRTC has not repudiated the CBC for their failure to live up to their mandate.

"This lack of understanding and focus as to the proper role of a public broadcaster is deeply concerning and it brings into serious question the judgment of executives in times of crisis," said another Liberal MP.

A PEI-based senator said that "The CBC as a condition of their license promised at least seven hours of local programming per week."

"Another condition was they could not change that without approval from the CRTC following a public process of consultation," he added. "None of that was done."

On top of this, the CBC also faced numerous protests from sub-national figures. The Leader of the Opposition in Newfoundland and Labrador, the leader of the Newfoundland NDP, the Qualipu First Nation, and Federation of P.E.I. Municipalities, all condemned the CBC.