The departure of Paula Todd should not mean a reduction in original, public affairs programming on TVO, says the union representing on-air and production employees at the provincial educational network.

Unfortunately, the surprise announcement that Todd is moving to CTV on March 1 appears to mean the end of that strand of programming. Employees have been told that, while no layoffs are planned, the network is not currently considering any new programming initiatives to replace the show.

The Canadian Media Guild is urging TVOntario management to develop a replacement for Person 2 Person, and to continue to produce programs that help stimulate Ontarians to engage in the public life of their communities. The union has asked management to set up a pitching session for TVO producers to assist in creating a new series featuring personal stories

“Paula helped develop a style of programming at TVO that is really about hearing first-hand from people who make a difference in Ontario,” says Carol Burtin Fripp, president of the TVO branch of the CMG. “It would be a great shame if that tradition simply disappeared from TVO with Paula. “

For more information, contact the CMG (info@cmg.ca) at 416-591-5333 or 1-800-465-4149.