Source: Halifax Chronicle Herald

SYDNEY — Representatives of Cape Breton Regional Municipality are urging the public to pressure the CBC to keep its Sydney station open.

Mayor John Morgan issued the public plea late Tuesday after regional council’s regular monthly meeting.

"It’s a unique and important service in our community," Mr. Morgan said, asking the public either to begin writing to the CBC president and board or risk losing the broadcaster.

"It’s vitally important this community send their concerns to CBC on this issue."

CBC president Hubert Lacroix told a Toronto business luncheon last month that major cost-saving measures are coming April 1 "that would change the very nature of our service to Canadians."

The Toronto Star reported at the time the CBC is considering more ad sales and American programming, and possibly selling or downsizing some of its television and radio stations nationwide to increase its profit margin.

Coun. Jim MacLeod (Whitney Pier) said the CBC helps keep him and others informed and the public has to be ready to stand up for the service.

"It’s important for this community to keep what they have," he said. "It’s very important to keep these news outlets open. . . . They’re needed. If we don’t stand up, we may lose them. We can make a difference . . . so rather than talk about it, do something about it."

MP Mark Eyking (Sydney-Victoria) called on the federal government recently not to cut funding to the CBC, which employs about 20 people in the Cape Breton bureau.

"CBC Cape Breton is outstanding," Mr. Eyking said in a news release.

"They have a dedicated staff of professionals who live, work and volunteer in our community. They provide a voice for Cape Breton as a unique cultural presence in Canada. Local CBC Radio is a vital piece of Cape Breton culture, heritage and democracy. It provides the island with a town square where people of all walks of life gather daily to share news, culture, and their ideas.

"To lose it would be a severe blow to the island, with repercussions well beyond the initial loss of service and jobs."

© Halifax Chronicle Herald