Statement by Mayor Fred Eisenberger on Hamilton Spectator layoffs and building sale

HAMILTON, ON - I appreciate receiving a call from Hamilton Spectator editor-in-chief, Paul Berton, this morning regarding the closure of its printing and mailroom operations and the approximately 180 people impacted by this loss. My thoughts are with these individuals and their families at this difficult time and trust they will receive the assistance needed to pursue the next steps in their employment journey.

With the current digital revolution, media outlets are strained and trying their utmost best to adapt to change. We appreciate the proud history of journalism and community in Hamilton dating back to the 19th century, and the Spectator is a vital part of that history. I anticipate and expect that to continue.

Local media in all its forms, print, broadcast and online, is vital to democracy, and ours does a fabulous job of covering Hamilton City Hall and sharing the news and stories that matter most to people.

I am pleased to hear the Spectator is looking to continue its operations in the City of Hamilton and I stand alongside them in advocating to remain within the community it has called home for more than 170 years.