News Media Canada is speaking out on the issue of a free press and urging the Canadian government to not only ensure journalist’s rights but to also modernize the existing Canada Periodical Fund.

The Canada Periodical Fund helps support print magazines and nondaily newspapers throughout the country, according to a press release.  

News Media Canada sent a proposal to Minister of Canadian Heritage Melanie Joly to address what the organization calls the critical issues facing the dissemination of news to Canadians.

“The industry has come together in an unprecedented way to support Canadians’ continued access to real news,” News Media Canada board Chair Bob Cox said.

Joining News Media Canada in addressing the issue are some of the country’s largest journalist employers and their unions who are calling for the industry to receive help in meeting the costs of providing around-the-clock news coverage of local issues, according to the release.  

“Across the industry, we are working on longer-term solutions to sustain the critical function of Canadian journalism — keeping as many feet on the streets of our local communities, on the steps of town halls, at annual meetings, in courtrooms, and on the playing fields,” Cox said. “We are calling upon government to continue its support of one of our Charter rights, freedom of the press, whose very existence is threatened."