Bell Media cancels two shows, lays off workers, citing financial pressure

TORONTO – Bell Media says it eliminated a number of jobs in Toronto after deciding not to renew two programs.

Spokesman Scott Henderson says in an email the company cancelled Daily Planet and Innerspace.

A company memo obtained by the Canadian Press says 17 positions, including taped segment producers and a director, were “declared surplus.”

The memo says the company will meet with the employees in those positions to determine if any will choose to displace less senior employees in other jobs they are qualified to fill.

Henderson says the changes come in the face of significant financial pressures as the broadcasting industry grapples with more international competition, evolving viewing options and an uncertain regulatory framework.

The company’s most recent annual information form says Bell Media employed 6,485 people as of Dec. 31, 2017 — down from 6,701 the previous year.