Evans Calls on Philadelphia Media Holdings and The Newspaper Guild of Greater Philadelphia to Resume Negotiations

PHILADELPHIA, December 7th – State Rep. Dwight Evans, D-Phila., today called upon the leadership of Philadelphia Media Holdings and the Newspaper Guild of Greater Philadelphia, Local 10, to resume labor talks and negotiate around the clock until a fair contract is settled.

“I am deeply troubled by the tremendous negative impact that a newspaper strike will have on people’s jobs, the long-term solvency of the Daily News and Inquirer, and on Philadelphia’s cadre of outstanding journalists,” Evans said. “The cost of a protracted strike to this city is far too great to have both sides not engaged in around-the-clock negotiations. It’s time for both labor and management leaders to come together, put the needs of Philadelphians first, and settle a fair contract.”

Evans applauded the local group of investors who sought to have these two critical papers remain viable and in local control. He cautioned, however, that it was inappropriate to simply reduce costs on the backs of the employees of the Daily News and Inquirer.

“There is room for both sides of the table to agree here,” he said. “For the critical information that these two publications provide countless Philadelphians and for the long-term health of this region, I strongly urge both sides to find that common ground as quickly as possible.”

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Last Updated: December 18, 2006