Monday, March 21, 2010 was probably a day that Nancy Thomson did not expect would occur in her career. The CBC reporter is scheduled to appear in a Toronto court next week to plead her case for investigative report that aired in 2004, where she refused to reveal her sources.
The report was related to social problems in the community of Watson Lake, including substance abuse. Her report created quite a bit of discussion, including debate in the Territorial Legislature. The Yukon News ran an editorial praising Thomson’s journalism and was subsequently sued in relation to statements made in the editorial. To support its defense against the suit, the twice-weekly newspaper wants Thomson to reveal her sources for the original report.
The hearing is to determine whether Thomson must name the sources. She could face a finding of contempt if she refuses to comply with a judge’s order. The CBC has hired media lawyer Fred Kozak to represent Thomson in court. CMG staff representative Rick Warren will also be on hand at the hearing.
CBC Reporter Goes To Court To Protect Identify Of Sources
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