CBC has announced another significant expansion of local news coverage under the proximity pillar of CBC/Radio-Canada’s new five-year strategic plan. This year, CBC News will add 33 local journalists and establish 11 new bureaus in communities underserved by the CBC, expanding its footprint from 66 to 77 local stations and bureaus to deliver more trusted news and information across Canada. This is in addition to last year’s CBC News local service expansion, which included hiring 30 journalists in 22 communities across Canada.

CBC News’ continued expansion strengthens the proximity pillar of CBC/Radio Canada’s Here for Canada strategy, which aims to increase the national public broadcaster’s presence, relevance, trust and relationship with communities across the country, by telling the stories that matter and elevating those stories to national audiences.

“We see this historic investment in local journalism as another meaningful opportunity to connect more Canadians with each other and the important, untold stories of their communities,” said Brodie Fenlon, General Manager and Editor in Chief, CBC News.

“As we establish our new bureaus, we are committed to preserving and improving on the diversity of trusted news sources that local communities can rely on,” said Barbara Williams, Executive Vice-President, CBC. “We look forward to championing the work of other news organizations in these communities and will seek opportunities to support and partner with them in the best way possible to contribute to a healthier media ecosystem for Canadians.”