Mediawatch
Midweek: New year, new layoffs
Jan 29, 2025
The podcast dives into NZME's drastic cuts of around 40 staff members, raising eyebrows about the future of investigative journalism. It delves into concerns from remaining journalists about job security and the effects of new hires from a failed outlet. A light shoplifting allegation unfolds into a deeper investigation, raising privacy alarms. Additionally, the show humorously addresses media manipulation awards, probing the impact of misinformation on society and the potential sacrifices of journalistic quality amidst financial struggles.
25:16
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Quick takeaways
- NZME's upcoming layoffs of nearly 40 staff, particularly sub-editors, threaten the editorial quality and independence essential for journalism.
- The uncertain financial sustainability of media companies raises significant concerns about the future of investigative reporting and accountability in journalism.
Deep dives
Job Cuts at NZME
Upcoming job cuts at NZME, affecting around 40 employees, primarily focus on production roles, historically known as sub-editors. These sub-editors, often seen as the unsung heroes of journalism, are crucial to maintaining editorial quality and accuracy. The restructuring includes a reduction of journalist roles from 22 to 18, with existing senior staff needing to compete for only seven new positions, potentially undermining their editorial independence. This restructuring not only impacts seasoned journalists but also raises concerns about the future of investigative reporting, which requires adequate time and resources to pursue important stories.
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