OTTAWA - Culture Minister Steven Guilbeault has expressed his support for CBC/Radio-Canada’s initiative to enhance local news coverage as part of its new five-year strategy. Speaking to reporters on Parliament Hill, he stated, "I think there's lots of really good elements in this plan. I really like the fact that the public broadcaster wants to invest more in local news across the country."

Guilbeault highlighted the Liberal government's commitment to increasing funding for the CBC but did not confirm whether this funding would be included in the upcoming federal budget. During the spring election campaign, the Liberals pledged an initial $150 million increase in the broadcaster's annual budget. They also proposed making the CBC’s federal funding statutory, which would protect it from potential cuts by future administrations.

According to Guilbeault, these additional resources are intended to ensure that Canadians have access to more information, including unbiased local news. The CBC aims to broaden its audience by targeting children, youth, newcomers, and those who are currently dissatisfied with its offerings.

CBC President Marie-Philippe Bouchard noted that the strategy includes a renewed focus on rural areas and Western Canada, which will involve increasing the number of journalists on the ground. The CBC plans to "fund additional coverage and hire sufficient journalists" to serve 15 to 20 smaller communities.

However, a list of the targeted communities shared by a spokesperson indicates that 11 are located in Ontario, three in British Columbia, one in Alberta, and none in Saskatchewan or Manitoba. A CBC spokesperson mentioned that the broadcaster had already announced plans to hire new journalists in Western Canada, including six in British Columbia, six in Alberta, two in Saskatchewan, and one in Manitoba.

This initiative reflects the CBC's commitment to enhancing its local news presence and addressing the needs of diverse communities across Canada.

The report was first published on October 22, 2025.