Peter Mansbridge defends himself after report of paid speech to oil industry

TORONTO – CBC News anchor Peter Mansbridge is defending himself after a report that he made a paid speech to petroleum producers.

In a blog post on the CBC website, Mansbridge says he has never publicly promoted or opposed oilsands development.

The anchor of The National says he gives about 20 speeches each year but never gives his opinion on matters of public policy or current events.

This comes after a published report said Mansbridge was paid to speak to the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers in 2012.

He is the second CBC personality recently to face questions for reportedly receiving payment in exchange for speaking at events organized by members of the oil industry.

The network has acknowledged that Rex Murphy, who hosts the show “Cross-Country Checkup,” has given speeches supporting oilsands development.

The executive director of the Organization of News Ombudsmen told CBC Radio that neither journalist should have accepted money _ and that in doing so, they’ve undermined the broadcaster’s credibility.

“The problem is in the money received,” Jeffrey Dvorkin, a former managing editor for CBC Radio, told “As It Happens.”

“In the end, there is a suspicion laid on all of the CBC,” he said. “It’s about reputation here …”

The CBC has defended Murphy’s actions, saying he is a freelance commentator paid to take a “provocative stand” on issues.