I was saddened by the news of veteran CBC reporter and anchor Knowlton Nash passing.

On behalf of CMG, I want to extend my condolences to his family and friends.

It’s fitting that there is such outpouring of emotion and recognition from Canadians across the country and from colleagues. The quality journalism Knowlton practised meant the world to those who watched and listened  and to his colleagues who learnt so much from him.

Like many young reporters at CBC, I looked up to him and strived for the high bar he set for a journalism that is accountable first and foremost to Canadians. This is a legacy that current CBC journalists continue  to fight for every day.

In paying tribute to Knowlton over the past few days, many commentators have also reminded us not just of an era that shaped CBC and journalism in Canada, but also of the principles that have held true through generations and technological changes in our business:  the primacy of the public interest, a rigorous focus on facts, the importance of good storytelling and the value of fairness.

CBC/Radio-Canada faces tough challenges these days, but I know the people who work there and our allies will not stop fighting for these principles.

The funeral service for Knowlton Nash will be held Wednesday, May 28 in Toronto, Forest Hill at Grace Church on the Hill at 2 p.m., and is open to the public.

Carmel Smyth
CMG National President