CBC Ombudsman Says Broadcaster May Have Been ‘Too Timid’ in Seeking Differing Perspectives on Pandemic Policies

CBC journalists may have been “too timid” in seeking differing perspectives on public health measures introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the CBC ombudsman.
Ombudsman Jack Nagler made the comments in a Dec. 30, 2024, response to a viewer complaint over CBC News’ coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The viewer accused the broadcaster of relying primarily on experts who supported the views of public health officials, saying it had failed to present opposing perspectives.
Nagler said while he does not find that CBC reporters failed to follow the broadcaster’s ethical standards, it could have given more exposure to a broader range of ideas during the pandemic….