JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES

AND PRACTICES

Executive Editor: Ron Waksman, Senior Director, Editorial Policy & Development
P: 416.446.5452
E:Ron.Waksman@globalnews.ca

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This is the second edition of Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices published Fall 2011. The first edition
was published in 2001.

Special thanks to co-editors Andrew Lundy (Director, Globalnews.ca) and Mark Trueman (Senior Producer, Global
News Toronto) for sharing their knowledge and experience. Thanks also to our Global News directors, senior news
managers and other journalists who contributed many real-life examples and questions taken from Global newsrooms
across the country. The legal, copyright, Courts and criminal sections were based on documents and guidelines
originally researched and prepared by Doug Richardson and Stuart Robertson of the law firm O’Donnell Robertson &
Sanfilippo.

All information and content or other material (collectively, “content”) found in the pages of the Global News
Journalistic Principles and Practices is protected under the copyright laws of Canada and other countries. Unless
otherwise specified, no person has permission to copy, redistribute, reproduce or republish in any form any Content
found on the pages of Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices. This includes electronically reproducing by
"uploading" or "downloading" or transmitting onto the Internet or any other local or international computer system.
Any infringement of the rights of Shaw Media Inc. may result in appropriate legal action.

© Shaw Media Inc., 2011. All rights reserved.

If you require further information on a permitted use or licence to reproduce or republish any Content, please address
your enquiry to the Senior Director of Editorial Policy at Global News. Shaw Media Inc. disclaims any and all liability
for any consequences whatsoever which may result from any unauthorized reproduction or use of the Content of this
document.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Forward ........................................................................................................................................................................5
Introduction……………………………………………………………………………………………………………5
The Rights of the Media ..............................................................................................................................................6
Journalistic Standards ................................................................................................................................................6
1.0 Principles & Practices .........................................................................................................................................6
1.1 Ethical Code of Professional Conduct ................................................................................................................7
1.2 Global News Conduct Clause .............................................................................................................................7
1.3 Criminal Charges ................................................................................................................................................7
1.4 Harm Limitation Principles .................................................................................................................................8
1.5 Expectation of Privacy ........................................................................................................................................8
1.6 Attribution & Sources .........................................................................................................................................9
1.7 On or Off the Record ..........................................................................................................................................9
Employment .................................................................................................................................................................9
2.0 Payment & Gifts .................................................................................................................................................9
2.1 Outside Work .................................................................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Public Appearances ........................................................................................................................................... 10
2.3 Partisan Politics................................................................................................................................................. 11
2.4 Insider Information ........................................................................................................................................... 11
Newsgathering & Reporting ..................................................................................................................................... 11
3.0 Headlines/Teases/Promos ................................................................................................................................. 11
3.1 Paying for News ................................................................................................................................................ 11
3.2 Interviews ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
3.3 Comments Recorded Outside a Formal Interview ............................................................................................ 13
3.4 False Starts ........................................................................................................................................................ 13
3.5 Interviewing Children Under 18 ....................................................................................................................... 13
3.6 Disturbing Content & Warnings ....................................................................................................................... 13
3.7 Live Coverage ................................................................................................................................................... 14
3.8 Terrorism & Hostage Taking ............................................................................................................................ 15
3.9 Riots .................................................................................................................................................................. 15
3.10 Assault & Arrest ............................................................................................................................................. 15
3.11 Suicide ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
3.12 Bomb Threats .................................................................................................................................................. 16
3.13 Racism & Discrimination ............................................................................................................................... 16
3.14 Co-operating with Police & Government ....................................................................................................... 16
3.15 Health Reporting ............................................................................................................................................. 17
3.16 Election Campaigns ........................................................................................................................................ 17
3.17 Political Ads .................................................................................................................................................... 18
3.18 Polling ............................................................................................................................................................. 18
3.19 Relationships with Sources ............................................................................................................................. 18
3.20 Video News Releases ...................................................................................................................................... 19
3.21 Embargoed Content ........................................................................................................................................ 19
3.22 News Blackouts .............................................................................................................................................. 19
3.23 Drone Reporting......................................................................................................... .......................................21
Getting it Right .......................................................................................................................................................... 20
4.0 Errors & Corrections ......................................................................................................................................... 20
4.1 Reacting to Complaints ..................................................................................................................................... 21
4.2 Identifying Crime & Accident Victims ............................................................................................................. 21
Criminal & Court Proceedings ................................................................................................................................. 22
5.0 Sexual Assault Victims ..................................................................................................................................... 22
5.1 Youth Criminal Justice Act ............................................................................................................................... 22
5.2 Child Services ................................................................................................................................................... 23
5.3 Publication Bans ............................................................................................................................................... 23
5.4 Response to Application for a Publication Ban ................................................................................................ 24
5.5 Contempt of Court ............................................................................................................................................ 24

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 5.6 Confessions & Prior Police Record .................................................................................................................. 24
5.7 Person of Interest .............................................................................................................................................. 25
5.8 Tweets from Court ............................................................................................................................................ 25
5.9 Recording Audio in Court ................................................................................................................................. 25
Legal ........................................................................................................................................................................... 26
6.0 Copyright .......................................................................................................................................................... 26
6.1 Fair Dealing ...................................................................................................................................................... 26
6.2 Defamation........................................................................................................................................................ 27
6.3 Defamation Defences ........................................................................................................................................ 28
6.4 Responsible Communication Defence .............................................................................................................. 29
6.5 Subpoenas & Warrants ..................................................................................................................................... 30
Globalnews.ca ............................................................................................................................................................ 30
7.0 Online Newsgathering . .................................................................................................................................... 30
7.1 Social Media ..................................................................................................................................................... 31
7.2 Verification of User-Generated Content (UGC).................................................................................................37
7.3Tweeting and Re-tweeting ................................................................................................................................. 40
7.4 Live Tweeting......................................................................................................................................................40
7.5 Linking to External Sources .............................................................................................................................. 40
Investigative Reporting ............................................................................................................................................. 44
8.0 Principles .......................................................................................................................................................... 45
8.1 Leaks ................................................................................................................................................................. 46
8.2 Confidential Sources ......................................................................................................................................... 46
8.3 Hidden Camera ................................................................................................................................................. 47
8.4 Unscheduled Interviews .................................................................................................................................... 47
8.5 Recording Phone & Radio Transmissions ........................................................................................................ 48
8.6 Trespassing ....................................................................................................................................................... 48
News Production ........................................................................................................................................................ 49
9.0 Editing............................................................................................................................................................... 49
9.1 Cutaways........................................................................................................................................................... 50
9.2 Use of Sound ..................................................................................................................................................... 50
9.3 Music ................................................................................................................................................................ 50
9.4 File Video ......................................................................................................................................................... 51
9.5 Re-enactments ................................................................................................................................................... 51
Advertising & Sponsorship ....................................................................................................................................... 51
10.0 Principles ........................................................................................................................................................ 51
10.1 Using Commercials in News Stories .............................................................................................................. 52
Licensing Content ...................................................................................................................................................... 52
11.0 Dub Requests .................................................................................................................................................. 52
11.1 Licensing Content from Outside Sources ....................................................................................................... 53
11.2 Outside Requests to Purchase Global News Content ...................................................................................... 53
Wearing Symbols ....................................................................................................................................................... 53
12.0 Ribbons, Pins & Religious Icons .................................................................................................................... 53
12.1 Poppies ............................................................................................................................................................ 53

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FOREWORD
This guide is designed to assist journalists and news managers in navigating the complex issues they face every day. It
is the most comprehensive of its kind in Canada, but that does not mean it anticipates every possible scenario.

As technology and society evolve, so too must our practices, and this document is meant to change and grow with the
times.

What won’t change are the principles that have earned Global News a reputation for fairness and for community
service.

Those principles are supported through the words on these pages, but also live through the actions of our employees.
As detailed as this guide may be, it can never substitute for the simple words of our founder, JR Shaw: “Do what’s
right.”

Troy Reeb

Vice President, Global News

Shaw Media Inc.

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INTRODUCTION
Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices are common-sense and accepted industry guidelines and standards
for dealing with frequently asked editorial, ethical and legal questions as well as professional conduct. These
principles and practices are not the only acceptable ways to go about gathering and reporting the news. Occasionally,
relevant facts and changing circumstances will require modification of these principles and practices, or the adoption of
new guidelines. Employees are required to familiarize themselves with this document, but it is not intended as a
substitute for their sound editorial judgment and years of experience. Moreover, these guidelines do not replace the
advice and risk assessment provided by legal counsel.

Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices adhere closely to the Radio Television Digital News Association
(RTDNA) Canada: Association of Electronic Journalists Code of Ethics, the RTDNA Code of Ethics and Professional
Standards, the Canadian Association of Broadcasters’ Code of Ethics and the Canadian Association of Journalists
Ethics Guidelines. This document incorporates best practices from many other reputable news organizations and
journalistic associations.

Any questions or requests for clarification about any part of the Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices,
should be directed to management or Ron Waksman, National Director, Editorial Content & Online News, at at 416-
446-5452, or Ron.Waksman@globalnews.ca.

THE RIGHTS OF THE MEDIA

The rights of the media are guaranteed in Section two (2) of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms:

"Everyone has the following fundamental freedoms, (b) freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression,
including freedom of the press and other media of communication."

Courts have traditionally upheld these rights and have been reluctant to restrict them.

JOURNALISTIC STANDARDS
1.0 PRINCIPLES & PRACTICES
Our primary directive is to report accurate, balanced, timely and comprehensive news and information in the public
interest. Independence is a fundamental Global News value; we will resist attempts at censorship or pressure to alter
news content, real or apparent. Integrity, fairness and transparency are at the foundation of our newsgathering process.
We are committed to reporting news without distortion or misrepresentation. Getting it right is more important than
getting it first. Our journalistic standards will not be compromised by the deadlines and pressures of 24-hour news.

We will not formulate news content based on our own personal cultural beliefs, opinions, corporate influences or those
of anyone else engaged in its preparation or delivery. News events and public issues may be analyzed and put into
context, as long as comment or opinion is clearly identified and kept distinct from regular news coverage.

Global News strives to reflect the diversity of Canadian society in the hiring of on-air employees, behind-the-scenes
editorial decision makers, and our choices of interview subjects, experts, analysts and commentators. Factors such as
race, national or ethnic origin, skin colour, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or physical or mental disability
will only be reported relevant to news coverage.

We are committed to removing impediments and bans on the reporting of news in the public interest.

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Clandestine reporting will only be employed when necessary to ensure the accuracy of stories in the public interest.

1.1 ETHICAL CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

The professional conduct of our employees should enhance the reputation, credibility, esteem and character of Global
News and the practice of journalism. Employees will conduct themselves on and off the job in such a way as to avoid
any perception of bias or conflict of interest. Journalist should:

1. remain professionally detached and objective when reporting the news so as not to influence the outcome of
events. This does not preclude the practice of advocacy journalism in the public interest;

2. not deliberately engage in deception or attempt to mislead sources when asked to identify themselves, except
in rare circumstances of overriding public interest;

3. not deliberately deceive or mislead a source as to the context or purpose of a story to convince the source to
comment or provide information;

4. honour intellectual property and copyright laws, applying “fair dealing” where appropriate;

5. properly attribute news content from other sources and not plagiarize;

6. use confidential sources only when there is an overriding public interest and when sources legitimately require
their identities be concealed;

7. not make their work available to sources or other media prior to broadcast or publication by Global News
without management approval;

8. not use official titles or positions in any attempt to leverage the authority and credibility of Global News to
resolve personal matters or obtain financial advantages not available to the public;

9. not use Global News credentials to gain access to events they are not officially covering;

10. avoid interviewing close relatives or friends and other Global News or Shaw Media employees. Exceptions
would include other employees, relatives or friends who witnesses breaking news events;

11. obey all federal, provincial and municipal laws when conducting professional activities.

1.2 GLOBAL NEWS CONDUCT CLAUSE

Any employee who disregards Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices and other implicit professional
journalistic ethics, conduct or standards, may be deemed to have lowered the reputation, interests and welfare of Global
News. This will be at the sole discretion of management and may result in reassignment or disciplinary action, up to
and including termination.

1.3 CRIMINAL CHARGES

If arrested, charged or convicted of a criminal or other serious offence, inform management as soon as possible. If
arrested, charged or convicted, the employee may be deemed to have lowered the reputation, interests and welfare of
Global News. This will be at the sole discretion of management and may result in the reassignment or suspension until
such time as a final legal finding is determined. The final legal determination may result in disciplinary action, up to
and including termination.

If an employee is charged outside of work with what management deems to be a serious criminal or other offence, the
preferred course of action is full public disclosure by Global News, even if the alleged offence is one that would not
typically be reported. It is necessary to hold ourselves to a higher standard, just as we would in disclosing conflict of

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interest, to protect our reputation for impartiality. This is the same principle Global News would apply to a public
official charged with an offence. Management will make the final determination whether to report the charge(s).

1.4 HARM LIMITATION PRINCIPLES

The following ethical reminders are useful in the practice of good journalism.

1. Show compassion for those who may be adversely affected by news coverage.
2. Use sensitivity when dealing with children, inexperienced sources or interview subjects.
3. Be compassionate when seeking interviews, video or photos from people impacted by tragedy or grief.
4. Show good taste and avoid sensationalism and pandering to lurid curiosity.
5. Except in rare circumstances and with the approval of Global News management and legal counsel, do not
identify youth suspects, young persons convicted of a crime, adult or youth victims of sex crimes or children in
protective custody.
6. Be judicious about naming criminal suspects or persons of interest before the filing of charges.
7. Balance a criminal suspect's right to a fair trial with the public's right to know.

1.5 EXPECTATION OF PRIVACY

Public figures, e.g., celebrities and politicians may, in some cases have a lower legitimate expectation of privacy.
People in public or semi-public places, e.g., airports, train stations, shopping malls, cannot expect to have the same
degree of privacy as someone at home or at some other sensitive location. However, people in semi-public places may
reasonably expect privacy if involved in private or personal activity. Infringe on a person’s privacy only when
overriding public interest outweighs the expectation of privacy. Such public interest may include exposure of criminal
or anti-social behaviour, corruption, injustice, incompetence or negligence. Public interest may also include protecting
people from physical danger, health hazards or information that would allow people to make better-informed decisions
on matters of importance

Personal Lives
Any decision to disclose details of someone’s private, personal life or relationships must be weighed against several
factors that include the public interest, a person’s public profile, and any harmful effects that disclosure may have on
family members, especially minor children. Consider how much detail is integral to the story without making it unduly
salacious. Stick to the facts and avoid reporting rumours or gossip.

Using Photos/Video Out of Context

Be aware of other people who appear in photos or video but are in no way connected to the actual story. These people
are entitled to a reasonable expectation of privacy. Crop or blur images as required to exclude people whose privacy
should not be infringed.

When reporting on a death or serious injury, ensure photos or home video of the victim are used in the proper context
and do not unjustifiably suggest malfeasance or negligence. Using Facebook images showing an accident victim
drinking excessively while on vacation in Mexico could suggest that drunk driving was the cause of the accident. Avoid
using home video of the victim involved in some outrageous behaviour that the audience might consider disrespectful
considering the gravity of the story.

Purposes Other Than News

If the intended use of news video is for purposes other than a news story, obtain written consent from the subject at the
time of the shoot or at a later date. Legal counsel can provide proper consent forms.

Quebec Privacy Laws

Quebec has privacy laws that provide for stricter protection of personal and private information. They apply to all
private companies and any personal information collected through traditional or electronic means. Contact local counsel
in Quebec for interpretation and advice about Quebec privacy laws.

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1.6 ATTRIBUTION & SOURCES
Two (2) credible sources are the minimum information verification protocol for Global News. Only news management
can make the rare decision to rely on a single source making serious allegations or claims of fact Journalists should:

1. use firsthand sources wherever possible;

2. authenticate documents, photos and video;
3. be straightforward about sources of information and do not imply that someone else’s work is their own;
4. do not imply they were present at an event or that they interviewed someone unless they were actually present;
5. leave out information if accuracy is in question. Attribution to another media will not protect Global News if
the facts are wrong.
6. clearly acknowledge the name of the author and source of copyrighted work with an on-screen credit or web
caption when such work is broadcast or published online (see 6. and 6.1 Copyright and Fair Dealing).

1.7 ON OR OFF THE RECORD

Journalists should assume that all information from a source or at a news event is “on the record” unless otherwise
stipulated by the source and agreed to by the journalist. If unsure whether something is on or off the record, journalists
should seek clarification from the source and put it in their notes.

Not for Attribution

Journalists should not name the source, but quote comments directly. A general description of the source’s position
may be included, e.g., government or party official. The source’s identity may also be concealed by altering audio or
video.

On Background
Journalists should not use direct quotes, but report the general meaning or essence of a source’s statements and
generally describe the source.

Off the Record

Journalists should not report the information or identify the source in any way. Use the information only to secure a
better understanding the subject matter.

EMPLOYMENT
2.0 PAYMENT & GIFTS
Employees should not accept or solicit financial compensation, gifts of more than token value or favours from those
who would seek to influence news coverage and compromise journalistic independence. Pay for all goods and services
purchased in the course of newsgathering. Do not accept free transportation or free accommodation without prior
management approval; exceptions may include military transport where reimbursement is not practical.

Employees should not use their title or position to seek reduced rates, free admission or free tickets to sporting, social or
entertainment events, or to seek discounts for books, clothing, travel accommodations or other merchandise or services.
They may accept admission, if offered, to a work-related or company-sponsored event including, but not limited to, a
movie, performance or speaking event. It is acceptable for a source to pay for a meal with the understanding that there
is intent to reciprocate at a later date. The total value of such a meal should be reasonable.

Employees should return any merchandise of more than nominal value supplied to Global News for demonstration
purposes, evaluation or one-time use, or donate it to a reputable charity once it is no longer required. They should not
sell or trade promotional videos, books and other such media for a fee or any other financial consideration.

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2.1 OUTSIDE WORK
Employees should not accept outside employment including freelance work that is similar in nature, either directly or
indirectly, to the activities and business engaged in by the company, without prior management approval. There are
limited exceptions provided the work does not conflict with news coverage or regular duties. Global News management
has the sole discretion to determine whether a conflict exists.

Public Speaking and TV Appearances

Employees should obtain consent from management before accepting any invitation to lecture, engage in public
speaking or appear on other Global News or outside media programs. Reasonable and proper expenses from speaking
engagements, previously approved by management, are eligible for reimbursement. Employees should not write or
speak, whether paid or unpaid, on news stories or topics to which they have been assigned, or on the subject of
broadcasting, the Internet, media industry or public relations without prior management approval.

Accepting Fees
Employees should consult with management before accepting any fee for a speaking, hosting or public engagement.
They should not accept fees for speaking engagements on behalf of commercial, for-profit or corporate interests.
Employees may be permitted to accept a fee for speaking engagements, provided the group, association or government
agency that issued the invitation is a non-profit, non-commercial, educational, humanitarian or training-based
organization.

Writing and Websites

Employees should receive prior management approval before developing websites or publishing articles or other
literary works in any medium. Management may prohibit writing that expresses opinion or relates to politics that could
be perceived as biased. Employees should disclose to management any writing or website development that took place
before being hired by Global News to determine whether a conflict exists.

Government Work
Global News employees must not be employed by, or perform services for, any level of government, domestic or
foreign. Exceptions, as determined by management, may include training provided by an employee for humanitarian
groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or certain government agencies.

2.2 PUBLIC APPEARANCES

Employees should not appear in any commercial, testimonial, endorsement, contest or giveaway for any product,
service or business without prior management approval. Nor should they appear on any website, film, documentary,
industrial video or as performer, actor or other participant in any video/film entertainment, variety or talk show without
prior management approval.

Public Service Announcements

In deciding whether to allow on-air to appear in a Public Service Announcement (PSA), the priority must always be
sound journalism and legitimate public service, not commercial interests. All PSA scripts are subject to prior
management approval. When appearing in PSAs, on-air talent should not directly solicit charitable funds, promote
ticket sales or recommend a product, service or company. The emphasis should be on conveying the importance and
value of the cause, not raising money. Emphasis should be place on conveying the importance and value of the cause.
On-air talent should not wear pins, ribbons, T-shirts or any other symbols on behalf of a charity or business.

Charitable Work
Except in limited circumstances where an employee was doing public charity work before being hired, they should not
appear in public on behalf of a charity without prior management approval. Occasional charitable work such as a dinner
speech or appearance at an auction is acceptable. However, a regular schedule of such appearances requires prior
management approval.

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2.3 PARTISAN POLITICS
Employees should not participate as a paid employee or volunteer in partisan politics. This includes, but is not limited
to, public speaking on controversial or significant public issues, campaigning, campaign fundraising, or political
demonstrations and rallies. Those who disregard this policy are subject to reassignment in order to remove the
appearance of bias, conflict of interest or unduly influencing news coverage. Further measures, up to and including
asking for the employee’s resignation, are possible.

Employees should notify management as soon as possible if they decide to seek election to paid or volunteer political
office at the community, e.g., school trustee, municipal, provincial or federal. Management reserves the right to re-
assign the employee, arrange a leave of absence or take additional steps, up to and including termination, to remove any
possible perception of bias or conflict of interest. Employees should not accept any political appointments, paid or
volunteer, partisan or non-partisan, to any public boards, committees, panels or task forces without prior management
consent.

Involvement in religious, school, professional or local community organizations does not usually lead to political
conflicts; however, if an employee or a close relative or friend are involved with an organization likely to attract news
coverage the employee may be precluded from participating in related editorial decisions. Global News management
has the sole discretion to determine whether a conflict exists.

Rallies and Demonstrations

Employees should consult with management before attending any contentious or sensitive community rally, protest or
demonstration outside work hours.

2.4 INSIDER INFORMATION

If a journalist uncovers sensitive information not previously disclosed to the public that could significantly impact a
company’s financial situation, they should not disclose it to anyone outside of Global News without prior management
approval and legal advice. Do not act on insider information. Wait a minimum three (3) days after broadcasting or
publishing such information before buying, selling or trading shares in the company. If regularly involved in covering a
particular company, employees are advised not to own stock in that company or its closest competitors. Disclosed to
management as soon as possible any potential personal conflict of interest related to inside information.

NEWSGATHERING & REPORTING

3.0 HEADLINES/TEASES/PROMOS
Headlines, teases and promotional material for Global News must meet the same editorial, legal and ethical standards as
any other news content. Ensure headlines, teases and promos do not misrepresent, oversimplify or highlight news
events out of context.

3.1 PAYING FOR NEWS

As a general rule, Global News does not pay news sources for interviews. Exceptions may include fees to transport
interview subjects and experts to and from a location.

In certain foreign countries like the United Kingdom, Members of Parliament customarily receive a small honorarium
for interviews.

The no payment policy applies when a news source requests promotion in exchange for an interview or commentary.
Decide on a case-by-case basis whether including a web address or company name as part of an on-screen credit or web

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caption is appropriate. Experts in their field, who provide contextual analysis or other services for Global News, may be
compensated with a fee or honorarium approved in advance by management.

Inducements
Employees should not provide potential sources or interview subjects with any non-monetary inducements including,
but not limited to, gift cards, coupons, vouchers, free meals or free admission.

3.2 INTERVIEWS
Interviews should be as spontaneous and unrehearsed as possible, taking into account pre-interview research and the
need to formulate questions in advance. Journalist may discuss with the interview subject the general topics to be
covered or provide a general outline of areas from which questions will be drawn. Journalist should not accept demands
by a source or interview subject to see specific questions in advance, delete certain questions, or approve the editing
process. Journalist should discuss such demands with management prior to conducting the interview.

Management may approve exceptions to this policy, e.g., landing a newsworthy interview with an important world
figure may require submitting questions in advance. This or any other significant restriction will only be accepted if it
receives prior management approval and is disclosed when the interview is broadcast or published.

Identifying Interview Subjects

Journalists should fully identify all interview subjects so viewers see them as credible and understand their significance
to a story. If it becomes necessary to conceal the identity of an interview subject out of fear for their safety or
retribution, this decision must be disclosed and explained. Management should approve any decision to conceal the
identity of an interview subject.

No Last Name
Journalists should avoid using interview subjects in a story who refuse to provide last names. Management should
approve the use of these interviews based on the nature of the story and public interest. This does not apply to what is
commonly known as “streeters” or “vox pops”.

Booking Interviews
Employees should be careful about what is promised when booking an interview. Phone conversations, emails or texts
setting up the interview may be considered a contract that could be challenged in Court if the conditions set out are not
followed. Do not suggest to interviewees, expressly or implicitly, that they will be portrayed in a particular way,
positively or negatively, or that a story or segment will have a particular point of view. Do not suggest that other points
of view will not be included.

Providing Interviewees with Video or Transcripts

Employees should not provide edited or unedited video or recorded audio or transcripts to an interview subject, before
or after broadcast or published, without management approval. Except in rare circumstances, interview subjects should
not be allowed to make video recordings of their interviews. Global News interviews are copyright protected. If
requested, consider allowing the interviewee to make an audio recording for personal use only. In the rare event that an
interview subject is allowed to make an audio or video recording of their interview, the interviewee must acknowledge
that the contents of the interview cannot be broadcast or published in any medium without the express written consent
of Global News. Moreover, the interview subject’s video or audio recording may begin only when our own interview
starts. Record the following statement in the interview subject's presence:

"We are allowing _____________ to record the following interview for his/her personal use with the understanding
that the contents are the legal property of Global News and may not be published or broadcast in any medium by
anyone other than Global News and those expressly authorized by Global News."

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3.2 COMMENTS RECORDED OUTSIDE A FORMAL INTERVIEW
Journalists who overhear or record comments by an interview subject before a formal interview begins should inform
the subject of the intention to broadcast or publish those comments. It may be appropriate to allow the subject an
opportunity to explain or clarify the meaning or context of their remarks. If the interview subject objects to our
broadcasting or publishing comments made outside the formal interview, Global News management should decide
whether or not to air the comments based on, but not limited to, relevancy, public interest or the potential impact such a
decision could have on the reputation and integrity of Global News. Any such decision should be disclosed and
explained.

During cutaways, subjects may ask if they are “off the record”. If the response is yes, journalists are expected to honour
their word, even if the subject says something newsworthy. Journalists who overhear an “off the record” comment that
is newsworthy during cutaways, should ask the subject to go back “on the record”.

Occasionally, journalists will overhear or record comments made by someone during a live news event or press
conference without the subject realizing they were being recorded. It may be assumed that the person who made the
comments is aware of the live situation; therefore, consider any comments “on the record”. Depending on how
contentious these comments are and the degree of public interest, it may be appropriate to allow the person an
opportunity to explain or clarify their remarks.

3.4 FALSE STARTS

When an interview subject asks to start a formal interview over again. refuse a restart and continue with the original
interview. In the rare circumstances, when a restart is granted, the original interview is no longer viable because the
subject is under the impression that only the second, complete interview will be “on the record”. Management should
not subsequently overturned the restart decision, even if the original interview later proves to be newsworthy; except in
cases of overriding public interest.

3.5 INTERVIEWING CHILDREN UNDER 18

No Parental Consent Required
Global News policy does not require a journalist to obtain consent from parents for a non-contentious or non-sensitive
story topic

Parental Consent Required

Journalists should obtain parental consent for contentious or sensitive stories that may pose a risk to the child, now or in
the future, including ridicule, bullying, physical or emotional harm or a depiction that could cast the child in an
unflattering or negative light.

Blanket Consent
Many schools ask parents to sign blanket consent forms for their children to be interviewed by the media. Some parents
may choose not to give their consent; therefore, consult with the teacher or school administration to determine who may
not be covered by the blanket consent.

3.6 DISTURBING CONTENT & WARNINGS

Journalists should not sanction, promote, glamourize, sensationalize or over-dramatize violent or disturbing events.
Equal care should be taken not to sanitize the reality of those situations when the story is in the public interest.

Broadcast
Viewers should be provided with both a verbal and visual warning in advance of broadcasting violent, disturbing or
sexually explicit content or graphic language. Ensure that verbal and on-screen warnings occur far enough in advance
of the disturbing content, usually early in the introduction to the material, so as to allow adult viewers an opportunity to
prevent or distract children from seeing or hearing the disturbing content. Use caution and discretion in repeating or
highlighting violent, disturbing or sexually explicit content or graphic language.

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Newsmagazine and Current Affairs
Newsmagazine, current affairs and talk programs are required to provide a verbal and full-screen warning of violent,
disturbing or sexually explicit content or graphic language immediately before the start of the program and immediately
prior to any segment that could be considered disturbing.

Globalnews.ca
Include a visual warning or web caption in advance of any violent, disturbing or sexually explicit content or graphic
language.

Graphic Web Images and Audio

In deciding to post disturbing content online, consideration should be given to placement. If the disturbing content
appears on the homepage and is the first thing users see, we essentially take away their choice. Consider placing the
most disturbing content on a secondary page where users can view if it they choose. Consider how much disturbing
content is actually required to make the editorial point without appearing too sensational or offending people.

Close-Ups
Be judicious and sensitive, using only those close-up shots that are integral to the story. Consider factors such as
distance, lighting and focus in determining appropriate close-up shots. Err on the side of restraint. If close-ups are
necessary, make quick edits and do not linger on disturbing images. Management should decide which shots are
appropriate.

Moment of Impact/Death
Be judicious and sensitive in broadcasting or publishing violent or disturbing content that shows the moment of impact
when a victim is struck and killed by a vehicle or hit by a bullet. Avoid close-ups. Management should decide which
shots are appropriate. Err on the side of restraint.

Dead Bodies
Be judicious and sensitive in broadcasting or publishing video that shows dead bodies or badly injured or disfigured
victims. Close-up shots of bodies covered by tarps, blankets or body bags may be seen by the public as violations of
privacy and human dignity as well as disrespectful to grieving family members. Management should decide which
shots are appropriate. Err on the side of restraint.

Misleading the Audience

Do not intentionally mislead the audience by withholding critical information that might lessen the impact or
sensational nature of graphic, violent or disturbing content. For example, it should be revealed in the anchor
introduction to a story that none of the gunman’s targets were actually hit or killed during a shooting rampage, if the
video might cause viewers to conclude otherwise.

Profanity
When it comes to profanity, err on the side of restraint. News management should approve the use of profanity or any
other questionable words in a news story. The decision to report profanity depends on the context in which the words
were spoken, and whether the story is in the public interest. Weigh the news value of including the profanity against
community and accepted social standards. Words such as “hell” or “damn” have become acceptable when used
sparingly in a way that is important to the story. The “F” or the “S” word, even if uttered in a courtroom or public
meeting, are generally not acceptable unless a compelling reason exists to include them. For example, if the Mayor was
to swear profusely at a taxpayer during a council meeting citizens might want to know this about their elected official.
If it was the taxpayer swearing at the Mayor, we could probably leave out the profanity.

3.7 LIVE COVERAGE

Ensure live coverage is as unobtrusive as possible, especially during sensitive, highly-charged and potentially violent
public events. Keep a low profile at public events when it is known the people in attendance may be angry, emotional
or confrontational. The presence of Global News at such events runs the risk of inflaming passions and prompting

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people to act out in front of the cameras. In situations that may involve violence, the risk of death or suicide, closely
monitor live broadcasts and streaming video feeds.

Do not deliberately stage-manage people at an event to make the background seem more crowded or interesting. Crowd
reaction should be as spontaneous as possible and not orchestrated on location.

3.8 TERRORISM & HOSTAGE TAKING

There should be no attempt to record or conduct a live interview in person, by phone, text or email with any hostage
taker or terrorist while the situation is ongoing. Contacting the hostage-taker mid-crisis could trigger a violent reaction
or compromise security operations.

Journalists should:

1 be judicious in the reporting of any information about hostages that could harm them; the number of captives,
nationality, official positions or how wealthy or well-connected they may be;
2 be judicious in reporting of information on military or police movements;
3 obey all police instructions at the scene, but report immediately to management any attempts by law
enforcement to manage or suppress news coverage.

3.9 RIOTS
At the scene of a riot, employees are empowered to decide when the risk to their safety demands changing locations or
leaving the scene entirely. The most important rules in covering a “riot” is not to call it that unless it really is one.
While it is a judgment call, determined a riot by the size of the crowd, casualty figures and the official response. In the
early stages, it is best for journalists to stick to what they observe, instead of characterizing the event as a riot. Avoid
set-up reports that emphasize the potential for a riot.

Keep a low profile at the scene, use unbranded news vehicles if possible and try not to make a production of carrying
gas masks, security vests and other safety gear. Avoid using lights except when they are essential and turn them off if
they appear to be instigating a dangerous situation. Professional agitators are sometimes responsible for what at first
may seem like spontaneous disobedience or violence. The presence of Global News is enough to incite agitators and
others to act out for the cameras.

In a riot situation, employees should obey the law and follow legitimate police instructions, but report any attempts by
law enforcement to manage or suppress news coverage. Do not enter into any deals with police to allow coverage under
specific conditions determined by them without management approval.

3.10 ASSAULT & ARREST

The definition of assault is the use of force against another person without that person’s consent. An assault can also
occur if a person does not actually make contact with another person but attempts or threatens to use force against them.

If assaulted while performing professional duties report the matter to management as soon as possible. Note that it is
not considered assault if private property owner, their agents, police or security personnel use necessary force to
remove news crews from the property when you refuse to leave. Occasionally, a journalist may be swept up in mass
arrests when a protest becomes unruly. If arrested, journalists should identify themselves to police as members of the
media as soon as possible. Journalists should make sure to always have their Global News credentials. They should
contact management if not released immediately

3.11 SUICIDE
As a general policy, Global News does not report on suicide unless it takes place in, or disrupts a public place,
institution or routine, involves well-known, influential, public or political figures, is related to larger social issues, or
involves murder as well as suicide. Management will determine exceptions to this policy.

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3.12 BOMB THREATS
As a general policy, we do not report bomb threats unless a serious threat to life or property exists, security operations
cause a significant evacuation or interruption in a public place, institution or routine, or the threat significantly impacts
the ability of law enforcement, security or emergency personnel to respond to other calls. Management will determine
exceptions to this policy.

If a bomb threat is communicated to Global News employees should alert police as soon as possible.

3.13 RACISM & DISCRIMINATION

Do not broadcast or publish any content that could incite or encourage discrimination on the basis of race, origin,
ethnicity, skin colour, affiliation, nationality, religion, sex, occupation, sexual orientation, political views or socio-
economic status. Weigh the inclusion of such material in news stories against the public’s need to. Do not provide a
platform for racism and discrimination, but be cautious not to sanitize coverage of these issues.

Suspect Descriptions
Avoid broadcasting or publishing the race of a criminal suspect unless the police description includes more detailed
physical characteristics, types of clothing or other identifying information that would realistically assist in the
apprehension of that person. Describing a suspect as dark-skinned, 6 feet tall, wearing jeans and a T-shirt, would not be
considered specific enough to warrant mentioning the suspect’s race in many Canadian communities.

3.14 CO-OPERATING WITH POLICE & GOVERNMENT

Never use your professional identities as journalists to perform any investigative function on behalf of the police or any
government agency. Global News will oppose any attempt by law enforcement or government to co-opt or misuse our
identity or brand by falsely posing as a Global News employee. Global News will not turn over edited or unedited news
footage to police or government agencies without being served with a subpoena, production order or search warrant
(see 6.5 Subpoenas & Warrants). Global News may initiate legal action to prevent the execution of a search warrant or
subpoena. Factors to consider in deciding whether to take such legal action are:

1. whether the subpoenaed material provides information relevant to the matter at issue;
2. whether the material or information is available from alternative, non-journalistic sources;
3. the impact disclosure may have on the newsgathering process;
4. the credibility and impartiality of Global News.

Once all legal avenues and appeals are exhausted, Global News must obey the law when ordered by the Court to
surrender edited or unedited footage to police or government agencies.

In the event of a police request to view edited or unedited footage, Global News managers may, at their discretion, elect
to allow the material to be screened on the premises if police present a compelling reason to do so. The material must
not be removed from the premises. Be aware that journalistic notes, edited or unedited video, emails and files are the
property of Global News. Employees are not free to surrender material that does not belong to them. Co-operation with
police or government agencies may be allowed, with the prior consent of Global News management where:

1. there is a serious, credible threat to human life or property;

2. there are compelling and credible national security considerations;
3. there is credible, compelling information that a serious crime is about to be committed.

Security Embargo
Global News may cooperate with government, the military or law enforcement in cases where information is
embargoed to the public for compelling, credible security reasons.

Police Ride Along

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When Global News accompanies police, there is always the possibility that our cameras could record an alleged crime
in progress. Should this happen, it’s likely that police would ask journalists to make the edited or unedited video
available to law enforcement. Establish ground rules for a police ride along before the first shoot ever takes place.
Consult counsel about any relevant trespassing or privacy laws. Where appropriate, respect the privacy of individuals,
protect the identities of young people and presume everyone is innocent until proven guilty.

Imminent Arrest of a Suspect

If Global News learns that the arrest of a suspect is imminent, it raises the question of when to disclose that information
to the public. Before deciding to report such information, consider whether disclosure or non-disclosure could result in
a serious threat or harm to the public; jeopardize the safety of law enforcement by revealing their intentions or
movements; lead to the identification of an undercover police officer or compromise other investigations.

Exclusive Access
In the rare circumstance of striking a deal with law enforcement to withhold information in the public interest in
exchange for exclusivity when the suspect is arrested, include a reasonable time limit after which Global News will
report the information unless law enforcement can provide further credible and compelling reasons not to do so. Only
managers are authorized to approve such deals.

Meeting with a Criminal Suspect

If approached by a criminal suspect to arrange a meeting for the purposes of an interview, Global News is under no
legal obligation to inform police. However, anticipate the likelihood of a production order or search warrant once the
video is broadcast or published. Do not offer, or accept an offer, to help negotiate the surrender of a criminal suspect to
police.

3.15 HEALTH REPORTING

Play down the hype and sensationalism associated with medical and scientific breakthroughs by focusing on objective,
factual reporting that includes expert comment. Be cautious about reporting unproven health benefits of new drugs,
health products or foods with so-called “preventative” characteristics.

Use caution when broadcasting or publishing study results which have been announced to the public before being
published in recognized, peer-reviewed journals. Clearly indicate the size and scope of a study and whether research is
preliminary or advanced. Where studies are sponsored by commercial business interests, whether supporting a drug or
other product or service, be clear as to who sponsored the study and temper the coverage accordingly. Even when
conflicts are not obvious, confirm whether those involved in a study have any conflicts to disclose. Make sufficient
effort to obtain complete studies, or at the very least, an abstract or summary.

Refer to brand name pharmaceuticals, e.g., Aspirin or Tylenol, by their commercial names only when the brand name is
relevant to the story. Be careful not to raise hopes or create fears in patients or family members who are living with
serious medical conditions. Be cognizant of the many privacy and patient identification issues involved with shooting
news video in medical environments.

Avoid interviewing Global News their friends or close relations.

3.16 ELECTION CAMPAIGNS

We are obligated to pay the utmost attention to issues of impartiality and bias, real or apparent, immediately before and
during election campaigns. Provide registered political parties and candidates “equitable” time during an election
campaign. This is not the same as equal time. Equitable time means registered parties and candidates are entitled to
“some” news coverage based on our editorial judgment. Equitable also applies in principle to the duration of coverage
within a broadcast, positioning within a broadcast or on a website, balance within current affairs programs,
representation on political panels, the choice of which electoral districts to cover, and candidate profiles and debates.

Broadcasting or publishing official election results, opinion polls or advertising during an election period is subject to
restrictions and blackouts specified by federal and some provincial legislation. Do not broadcast or publish any video of
candidates “stumping” provided free of charge or as a courtesy by political parties, candidates or third parties.

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Campaign Reporters
Remain professional, objective at all times and guard against bias or conflict of interest, real or apparent. While they
cannot express opinion or make editorial comments, reporters may offer professional journalistic analysis of campaign
events. Be cautious about becoming too familiar with candidates while covering their campaigns. The professional line
that separates journalists from the political candidates they cover must be regularly and openly reinforced.

3.17 POLITICAL ADS

Political ads may be aired in commercial breaks during Global newscasts if insulated from the adjacent editorial
content. Take steps to ensure political ads are separated from stories dealing with election campaigns or issues. In the
case of online digital advertisements, usually positioned right next to news content, clearly separate and define the
advertising space. When using political ads in a news story, clearly identify the material with an on-screen credit or web
caption. Use only as much of an ad as is necessary to tell the story. Do not use the entire ad.

Global News does not license the use of its content for any political party or third party ads. Any candidate, political
party or third party that uses unauthorized Global News content in their campaign material or for the purpose of
endorsement is in violation of our copyright and should immediately be asked to remove our content.

3.18 POLLING
When reporting on polls commissioned by other news media or research firms, make an effort to obtain a copy of the
complete polling results or a summary. It is not sufficient to merely attribute poll results to another media organization,
the polling company alone, or simply report the results as “a new poll out today”. Credit both the originating media
organization and the research firm. Global News expects the same courtesy from other media organizations.

Before reporting on any polling, know who conducted the research, when the survey was conducted, how the survey
was conducted, e.g., telephone or online, the sample size and the margin of error. When reporting polling results,
present the questions verbatim. Very long and complicated questions may be shortened.

Web Polls
Use caution in hosting or reporting pseudo, non-scientific polling, e.g., website and phone-in polls. State clearly that
such polls are not statistically sound or reliable indicators of public opinion.

3.19 RELATIONSHIPS WITH SOURCES

Every journalist works their sources in different ways. Managing these relationships is best left in the hands of
journalists not newsroom managers. Journalists have an obligation to remind sources often and openly that they are
professionals first. Even the appearance of conflict of interest or bias can damage the reputation and credibility of
Global News. Be extremely careful in what you say to a source in email or other electronic communications.

Friendships with Sources

Be cautious about developing personal relationships or socializing with sources or potential sources during and outside
working hours. Journalists who are friends, or become friends, with a source, especially a high-profile newsmaker,
should inform management of the relationship. It is possible that they will be re-assigned to avoid regular news
coverage involving that source. The fear of losing a source, even an influential, prolific one, should never outweigh
concerns about bias and conflict of interest, real or apparent. Failure to disclose more than a casual friendship with a
source could seriously damage the reputation and integrity of Global News should the relationship becomes public.

If a friendship with a source develops into a more intimate relationship, inform management as soon as possible and
expect to be re-assigned.

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3.20 VIDEO NEWS RELEASES
When provided with a video news release by a third party, Global News is responsible for verifying its authenticity and
accuracy. A video news release (VNR) must be properly attributed and credited to the source when the material is
broadcast or published. Attach source information to the VNR material when it is archived to prevent future use without
proper attribution. Stories should include only a limited amount of VNR material from public relations firms, interest
or advocacy groups or commercial business interests. Never use a VNR in its entirety. VNR material in a news story
must be clearly identified as such with an on-screen credit or a web caption. Do not attempt to pass off VNR material as
Global News content.

3.21 EMBARGOED CONTENT

Global News employees are responsible for complying with any agreements prohibiting advance publication, advance
transmission, or wireless communication in budget or other embargo information lock-ups. When offered special
advance access to research material, government investigations or budgets under embargo, it is our policy to honour
that embargo because of the advantages it provides in preparing our reports.

If an embargo is violated by other media, Global News will carefully consider broadcasting or publishing the
embargoed information, subject to management approval. Place a courtesy call to the organization that originated the
embargo to inform them it has been broken and that our intention is to broadcast or publish the embargoed content. If
able to independently obtain and authenticate the embargoed content, we are not obligated to honour the terms of the
embargo. Global News is not required to inform the organization that originated the embargo that we have
independently obtained the content, but it may be good practice to do so.

3.22 NEWS BLACKOUTS

Most journalists will agree that no story is worth a human life, but the suppression of news in the public interest is still
a serious matter. Consider whether to treat a news blackout request involving a kidnapped journalist any differently
than a request involving an ordinary person. Executive management will deal with blackout requests on a case-by-case
basis. Consider the following questions in reaching a decision to support a news blackout:

1. Does compelling evidence that reporting the kidnapping could lead to the death of the captive, or make
negotiations more difficult?
2. Is the blackout request short or long term, and will it be revisited periodically?
3. Given the circumstances of the abduction, would we agree to a blackout if the captive was not a
journalist?
4. Have we weighed the potential harm to the captive against the interests of the public and harm to our
integrity and reputation?
5. How have we dealt with similar situations in the past?
6. Did we seek the advice of other media organizations who have dealt with similar situations?
7. Can we back our decision with sound journalism and justify any inconsistency in our policy?
8. Will we disclose all our deliberations and the reasoning for our decisions once the crisis has passed?

3.23 DRONE JOURNALISM

1. Public safety is paramount when operating a drone. All flights must be conducted in a way that minimizes
risk to people and property.
2. Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices apply to drones or UAVs the same way they apply to
any other newsgathering tool.
3. Balance the public’s right to know with expectation of privacy outlined in section 1.5 EXPECTATION
OF PRIVACY in the Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices.
4. Use common sense and compassion in deciding what information and drone video will be released to the
general public. Just because we shoot it, doesn’t mean we publish or broadcast it.

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 5. At this time, it is recommended that Global News stations/programs hire freelance or independent drone
operators with a proven track record of safe operation who follow all Transport Canada regulations and air
traffic control restrictions.
6. No drone or UAV should be operated on behalf of Global News without proof of the required level of
liability insurance.
7. Drones should be used to gather information and video pertinent to news coverage, not to search for news
stories.
8. Before launching a drone, the area of operation should be closely defined and surveyed for any obstacles
that could present a risk to safe operation.
9. With few exceptions, drone operations should only be conducted as ‘Line-of-Sight’ flights.
10. Before launching a drone, the operator should determine safe landing zones in case the craft must be
landed suddenly due to technical problems or weather conditions.
11. Before launching a drone, inform members of the public, Global News staff and first responders of the
intention to fly the craft and its intended path.
12. Before attempting to approach a scene and shoot drone footage, the operator should put the craft through
some basic maneuvers to ensure it is operating properly. If there is any indication flight controls are not
responding correctly, the drone should be landed immediately.
13. Drone operators must obey the following Transport Canada ‘no-fly’ limits:

a. No closer than 9 kilometres from any airport, heliport or aerodrome.

b. No higher than 90 metres above the ground.
c. No closer than 150 metres from people, animals, buildings, structures or vehicles not connected with
the news scene.
d. No flights in populated areas or near large groups of people, including sporting events, concerts,
festivals and fireworks demonstrations.
e. No flights near moving vehicles, highways, busy streets, bridges, busy or anywhere that could
endanger or distract drivers.
f. No flights within restricted airspace, including over military bases, prisons and forest fires.
g. No flights anywhere there could be interference with first responders.

14. In addition to the operator, a Global News crew member should monitor drone operations for signs of
technical or weather related problems.
15. No drone shall be operated or monitored under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
16. If drone GPS safety modes such as ‘Return to Home’ are available to the operator, they should be
employed during flight operations.

GETTING IT RIGHT
4.0 Errors & Corrections
Inform management as soon as possible if an error or inaccuracy is suspected or confirmed. Immediately advise counsel
when the error has the potential to result in litigation or a regulatory complaint. Corrections must be unambiguous. Do
not attempt to justify the error or make it sound insignificant. It is not sufficient to only include the accurate information
in the correction; the original error must also be acknowledged.

Significant factual errors must be corrected clearly and promptly in the next broadcast of the same news program, at
approximately the same time as the original error occurred. Immediately correct online errors, including text, video and
photos, in the appropriate online venue. Include a notation advising users of the correction.

In limited circumstances, Globalnews.ca may be considered as an alternative or additional venue for corrections and
clarifications. Global News management will make this determination in consultation with counsel.

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4.1 REACTING TO COMPLAINTS
After taking the initial complaint, employees should refer the matter to management as soon as possible. Their manager
will advise counsel and Regulatory Affairs as required. If you suspect that a complaint could result in legal or
regulatory action you should inform a Global News manager It is important to be careful how much information is
shared with a complainant. Global News is under no obligation to provide a complainant with dubs, scripts, details of
an investigation or sources. Avoid taking an early position on a complaint in case it is later shown that the position is
invalid. Take the approach that the complaint will be thoroughly investigated but it will take some time to speak with
everyone involved.

4.2 IDENTIFYING CRIME & ACCIDENT VICTIMS

Global News will not broadcast or publish the identity, e.g., name, photograph or any other identifying details, of any
person who has died as the result of a crime, accident, war, terror attack or disaster, until immediate family members
have been notified and the identification is confirmed, unless there is overriding public.

Notifying Next of Kin

Allow authorities a reasonable period of time to inform next of kin. The definition of reasonable has narrowed because
of social media. It is not uncommon for police to ask the media to delay identification even though a memorial page for
the victim appears on Facebook. The following are basic guidelines for when to identify a victim despite being asked
not to by police:

1. if able to independently confirm the identity of the victim without the assistance of police, using the
minimum two (2) source verification protocol, the name may be reported unless police provide
compelling specific reasons to withhold it;
2. if the victim’s name appears with a picture on a social media or website, and independent confirmation
has been made, the name may be reported, unless police provide compelling reasons to withhold it;
3. if a reasonable amount of time has passed for police to notify family members, taking into account how
far away they live or how remote they are, the name may be reported, unless police provide compelling
reasons to withhold it;
4. if an overriding public interest exists in identifying the victim, the name may be reported, unless police
provide compelling reasons to withhold it;

Request from Family Members

In deciding whether to broadcast or publish the identity, e.g., name, photograph or any other identifying details, of any
person who has died as the result of a crime, accident, war, terror attack or disaster, take into account requests by
immediate family members not to identify of that person and weigh those requests with circumstances of public
interest.

Identifying Victims
In deciding whether to broadcast or publish the identity, e.g., name, photograph or any other identifying details, of a
crime or accident victim, take into account a request by the victim not to identify them and weigh it with circumstances
of public interest.

Military Deaths
Because of the distances and the formal protocols involved with military death notifications, we should respect all
military lockdowns and embargoes related to soldiers killed in action until family members are notified, unless there are
exceptional circumstances of public interest.

Organ Donors and Others

Do not broadcast or publish the identity of a mentally ill person, drug or alcohol addict, organ donor, organ recipient or
mortally ill person without their consent or the consent of their immediate family members, unless there are exceptional
circumstances of public interest.

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CRIMINAL & COURT PROCEEDINGS
5.0 SEXUAL ASSAULT VICTIMS
Do not identify victims of sexual assault before, during and after any legal proceedings. Do not identify the accused or
witnesses in sexual assault cases if doing so could lead to the identification of the victim. Do not broadcast or publish
any information pertaining to a sexual assault victim’s sexual history.

Victim Request Identification

In rare circumstances, a sexual assault victim may wish to be identified. If a publication ban is in effect, Global News is
still prohibited from identifying a sex assault victim. Both the sexual assault victim and Global News could be held in
contempt if the publication ban is ignored.

If no publication ban exists, and the victim wants to be identified, do so only if in our editorial judgment the decision is
in the public interest. Clearly explain the decision to broadcast or publish the name of a sex assault victim, and restate
our standard non-identification policy.

5.1 YOUTH CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACT

Global News will not identify a young person under 18 who is alleged to have committed a crime under the Youth
Criminal Justice Act YCJA, even if at the time of the Court proceedings the young person has turned 18.

Global News may identify a young person alleged to have committed a crime under the YCJA only:

1. if the accused turns 18, is not in jail and consents to being identified by any member of the media;
2. if the Court orders the publication of a young person’s identity in the media;
3. if the accused young person is given an adult sentence and the Court does not order a publication ban on their
identity.

Bans on the identification of young persons under the YCJA pertain to any information that might identify such a
person. Global News managers must use their editorial judgment as to how much information is too much. Do not
hesitate to contact counsel when it comes to publication bans.

Victim or Witness Under 18

Global News will identify a young person under 18 who is a victim or witness in a case under the YCJA only:

1. with the consent of the parents of that young person;

2. if those suspected or charged are adults; unless the Court orders a publication ban;
3. with the consent of the victim or witness provided they are 18 years or older at the time of consent.

Deceased Victim Under 18

Global News must not identify a young victim who is dead as a result of a criminal act by another young person, unless
the parents of the victim consent to the publication or broadcast of the victim’s identity by any member of the media.

When Does a YCJA Publication Ban Take Effect?

Global News policy is that a YCJA publication ban is not in effect until such time as a young person has been named as
a suspect or charged with an offence. Therefore, Global News may identify a youth victim if the age and identity of the
suspect(s) being sought by police is unknown. Global News is responsible for monitoring the status of the police
investigation so it is immediately known when they have named a suspect and whether the suspect is a young person.

How Long Does a YCJA Publication Ban Last?

A YCJA publication ban continues in perpetuity unless one of the conditions listed in this section applies, or the Court
orders that the young person is dangerous and publication of their identity is necessary to assist in making an arrest.
Such an order will only remain in effect for five (5) days. Global News is responsible for verifying the timing of such

22
orders and should not rely on other members of the media. Global News is not compelled to broadcast or publish the
identity of the young person in this situation but the order allows us to do so.

Identifying a Young Person in Another Context

Bans on the identification of young persons under the YCJA will apply even if Global News reports on the young
person in some other context unrelated to the Court proceedings.

Provincial Bans
Similar publication ban provisions apply to young persons for certain offences under provincial legislation, including
highway traffic offences, truancy and trespassing.

5.2 CHILD SERVICES

Assume a publication ban is effect when reporting on a young person being removed from their family by authorities or
by Court order.

Under most legislation, police are entitled to take custody of a child without a Court order if it appears the child faces
imminent danger. A Court order would need to be obtained within a short period of time after the child is taken into
custody.

5.3 PUBLICATION BANS

It is the responsibility of Global News to verify any Court orders pertaining to publication bans before finalizing a story
or program. Failure to do so could result in contempt of Court charges.

Preliminary and Bail Hearings

Global News may not report on evidence from a bail hearing or preliminary hearing if the accused asks for a ban on
publication, which the judge must automatically grant. The Crown may also request a publication ban on evidence, but
must prove to the judge why it is necessary. Under no circumstances can we report on a confession tendered at a
preliminary hearing.

Voir Dire
Global News will not report on any Court proceedings or evidence in a jury trial when the jury is not in the courtroom.
This is known as “voir dire”. An automatic publication ban exists on voir dire evidence. Voir dire publication bans
almost always extend to all pre-trial motions that deal with evidence. Seek clarification on all pre-trial motions to
determine if they are covered by a voir dire ban (see 5.6 Confessions & Prior Police Record).

Decency Ban
In some cases, a judge will impose a publication ban in the name of public decency and out of respect for the families
of victims. We should resist such bans by arguing “freedom of expression,” if it is our editorial judgment that the public
should be informed of the evidence.

Ban to Protect Police

In some cases, a judge will impose a publication ban on evidence in order not to jeopardize future police sting or
undercover operations. Resist such bans if it is our editorial judgment that the public should be informed of the
evidence and the Crown or police fail to make a credible, compelling argument for the ban.

“Un-publishing” Archived Stories after a Publication Ban

It is not unusual for a publication ban to be ordered after a number of stories identifying the subject of the ban have
already been filed and archived. It is Global News policy not to purge such stories from our archives if a publication
ban is subsequently introduced. The publication ban will only apply to those stories broadcast or published after the
order was issued and is not retroactive, unless so ordered by the Court. However, it is the responsibility of Global News
to ensure the banned content is not accidentally rebroadcast or republished.

23
Civil Cases
In rare situations, a publication ban may be ordered in a civil case before the Court. Such situations could include child
custody and access disputes or confidential and proprietary business information. Be aware of the possibility of such
civil publication bans and confirm with the Court whether such an order has been made.

5.4 RESPONSE TO APPLICATION FOR A PUBLICATION BAN

There is usually no point in challenging standard, non-discretionary publication bans under the Criminal Code. Some
non-discretionary bans under the Criminal Code may be worth challenging. For example, a section of the Criminal
Code permits the Court to order a publication ban concerning the identity of a victim (non-sexual offences), witness or
justice system participant. This section of the Criminal Code sets out a number of factors for the Court to consider in
deciding whether to order a publication ban. The Court has considerable discretion in such cases, and Global News may
have an opportunity to successfully challenge such a ban.

If someone applies for and receives a discretionary publication ban or exclusion order, be prepared to stand up in Court
and immediately ask the presiding judge or Court officer for a recess in order to confer with counsel and news
management. The following is a suggested response to an application for a publication ban or exclusion order:

“Sir/Madam, my name is ( ) and I am a ( ) for Global News. I would like to ask for standing before this
Court on behalf of Global News to object to an order that will prevent reporting on this process, which
Global News believes is in the public interest. In its 1994 decision in the Dagenais case, the Supreme Court
of Canada ruled that the media has the right to seek standing in cases where applications are made for
publication bans or exclusion orders. Global News counsel is prepared to argue against this ban or
exclusion order and we respectfully ask for a hearing on this important issue. We can arrange for counsel
to be here as soon as possible. Our lawyers will be able to demonstrate that “closure” in this case would be
a violation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Therefore, Global News requests an adjournment or
recess until counsel arrives to deal with this matter.”

5.5 CONTEMPT OF COURT

Contempt of Court is the crime of interfering with the administration of justice. Breaching or defying a publication ban
could warrant a charge of contempt. Depending on the proximity to a jury trial, Global News could face charges of
contempt for broadcasting or publishing statements with the intent to interfere with the course of justice, and
information, statements, interviews or evidence that run a real risk of prejudicing a jury trial, such as:

1. reporting on the unreliability of evidence, the possibility of perjury by a witness or the inevitable outcome of a
trial;
2. reporting on the criminal record of the accused in a criminal trial, a confession or other evidence that results in
a real risk of prejudicing the jury;
3. reporting that the accused suffers from a mental health problem unless the psychiatric assessment or diagnosis
is entered into evidence in Court with the jury present;
4. broadcasting or publishing the contents of a statement of claim or the amount of the claim in a civil defamation
suit once the jury has been chosen.

5.6 CONFESSIONS & PRIOR POLICE RECORD

In the first few stories immediately following an arrest or charges, Global News may report on a confession by the
accused, their prior police record, and/or interviews with people, including police or government officials, who allege
they have evidence or information pertaining to the guilt or innocence of the accused. The closer to a jury trial, the
more prejudicial such evidence can be.

Cut-off for Reporting – Preliminary Hearing

In most cases, the cut-off date for reporting on the defendant’s prior police record or confession would be the start of
the preliminary hearing. Evidence of a confession presented at a preliminary hearing is always subject to a publication

24
ban under the Criminal Code. If defence counsel refers to a confession in comments to the media after the preliminary
hearing, Global News would most likely be able to report on those statements.

Seek legal advice in deciding whether to report on a confession by the accused. Every case has specific factors that can
influence the decision and bring about the potential issue of defamation.

Seriously consider the following before reporting on a confession prior to a preliminary hearing:

1. the trial will take place in a small community where potential jurors are more likely to remember media reports
of a confession;
2. a confession of murder is more likely to be remembered than most other offences because of its sensational
nature;
3. statements about a confession made by a convicted criminal or a former cellmate, are less likely to influence
potential jurors than what are viewed as more credible statements by defence counsel or police.

5.7 PERSON OF INTEREST

Being called a person of interest (POI) by police may be understood by some people to mean suspect. POI is not a
defined legal term. Therefore, it is not sufficient to report that police are looking for a POI. As journalists we are
obligated to ask them to provide as much detail and context as possible.

Reasons to identify a POI by name include, but are not limited to, the following criteria:

1. independent Global News reporting confirms the POI’s connection to the alleged crime or crime scene;
2. police provide a compelling explanation or evidence why the person is a POI, surveillance video, photographs
or witness statements;
3. police believe the POI has information that could prevent harm to others;
4. the alleged crime impacts a public place, institution or routine;
5. the alleged crime involves well known, influential public or political figures;
6. identification of the POI is clearly in the public interest.

5.8 TWEETS FROM COURT

When tweeting from Court is allowed, all the standards, practices and principles of journalism apply, despite the limited
number of characters available.

Tweeting or live feeds using a smartphone device are not permitted in a courtroom unless authorized by the Court.
Global News must bring a formal application seeking permission.

Disturbing or Graphic Tweets

Reporters tweeting from Court must include a short warning about disturbing or graphic content, and consider carefully
how much detail might be too much. Such a warning could be as simple as typing “DISTURBING CONTENT“ at the
start of a tweet session.

5.9 RECORDING AUDIO IN COURT

Most jurisdictions across Canada permit journalists to make audio recordings in the courtroom. However, such
recordings are for the purposes of accuracy and cannot be broadcast or published online.

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LEGAL
6.0 COPYRIGHT
Anyone operating a camera is the copyright owner of the video or photos they take. That means videos and pictures
posted on YouTube or similar websites are protected by copyright.

Public Domain
It is often misstated that video, photos or audio recordings found on a public web site can be broadcast or published by
Global News because they are in the public domain. This does not mean what many journalists think it means! Public
domain is essentially the expiration date of copyright. Intellectual property does not enter the public domain in Canada
for at least 50 years after it is first broadcast or published. Works may only be considered in the public domain if they
are not covered by copyright laws and are not owned or controlled by anyone.

Consent
To include copyrighted material in a news report when the fair dealing exception is not available, we are required to ask
the owner for consent or license. YouTube and other such websites usually provide a way to contact the rights holder. If
permission can be obtained from the copyright owner, get it in writing and include any important conditions such as the
fee and all contemplated uses and platforms.

Author and Source Credit

When using copyright-protected content in a story, it is mandatory to include an on-screen credit or web caption that
tells viewers who the author and the source are, e.g., John Smith/YouTube.

Courtesy Key
Use of a courtesy key, without first obtaining the consent of the rights holder, is still copyright infringement.

Public Sharing Websites

When someone posts video or photos to a public sharing website, it doesn’t mean Global News is permitted to
republish those images on our own news sites. If fair dealing is not available, we must try to obtain consent (see 6.1
Fair Dealing). A video player may be embedded in our Global News web pages, but the material cannot be posted as
our own.

Jurisdiction
Broadcast or publication of video or photos in Canada is governed by Canadian copyright law even if the copyright
owner resides or produces the work in the United States.

6.1 FAIR DEALING

Fair dealing is a limited exception to the exclusive right guaranteed by copyright law to the author of the creative work.
In certain circumstances, Global News may be entitled to use copyright protected material in a fair dealing for the
purposes of news reporting or reviewing or criticizing the material.

Applying Fair Dealing

According to current case law, and for the purposes of news reporting, fair dealing can be argued when the copyrighted
work itself is the subject of a news story, not when the work is used merely to illustrate, e.g., additional B-roll.

How Much of the Copyrighted Work Can be Used?

Fair dealing has been interpreted to mean using only as much of the work as is necessary for the purposes of reporting a
news story. However, no hard and fast rule exists as to how much of the content can used for it to be a fair dealing.
What is fair will depend on the nature of the work and the purpose for which it is being reproduced. As a starting point,
it is recommended not to use more than :15 to :20 seconds. Generally, it is not a fair dealing to reproduce the entire
video.

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Required Credits for Fair Dealing
In order to obtain the benefit of fair dealing you must include an on-screen credit or a web caption that names the
source and author of the video or photos.

Scripting Fair Dealing

Ensure news stories should contain a scripted reference to the rationale for applying fair dealing to the copyrighted
work.

Fair Dealing Scenarios

Example 1. A man is the victim of a crime that is newsworthy. A reporter finds video or photos of the victim posted on
YouTube or Facebook, but the images show the victim in an activity that is unrelated to the circumstances of the crime.
The journalist wants to use the images in a story to put a human face on it.

Using the video or photos would likely not be a case of fair dealing because the images themselves are not the subject
of the story. This example is not meant to suggest a blanket restriction on using YouTube video or Facebook photos in
stories. We are in the storytelling business and we need pictures to do so. When faced with the above example, exercise
editorial judgment as to the appropriate usage of YouTube video or Facebook photos in a news story.

If fair dealing is not available and the online site offers a way to contact the owner, ask for consent. If consent is
denied, escalate the decision to management. Be advised that deciding to use the images without permission, and where
fair dealing does not apply, is copyright infringement, plain and simple.

Here are some examples that can be applied in deciding if a case to be made for using copyrighted material in a fair
dealing.

Example 2. A video posted on YouTube about euthanasia has prompted police to commence an investigation into a
possible criminal offence; or the YouTube video is mentioned in a debate in the House of Commons in regard to the
laws about assisted suicide.

In such cases, the use of a limited clip from YouTube in a story about the police investigation or the debate in the
House of Commons would likely be a fair dealing because the YouTube video itself is the central subject of the story.

Examples 3. A video posted on YouTube goes viral with millions of viewers having seen it. People around the world
are talking about it and Global News wants to post the video on its website and include it in a news story or on a
morning show.

Examples 4. U.S. President Barack Obama appears on Late Show With David Letterman and is subjected to a scathing
Top 10 list of accomplishments. Global News stations want to run that Top 10 list on their morning shows.

Global News would be able to broadcast or publish portions of these videos under the fair dealing exception. In the first
example, the fact that the video has gone viral and millions of people are watching and talking about it is, in itself
newsworthy. In the second example, Barack Obama, a public figure, is criticized for his accomplishments using satire.
For all intents and purposes, this is political criticism under fair dealing. In both examples, it's the copyrighted work
itself that is the subject of the news report.

6.2 DEFAMATION
Defamation is a broadcast or online statement made to a third party that would lower the reputation of the Plaintiff in
the eyes of reasonable people in the community. It can be spoken (slander), or it can be written (libel). Libel is a type
of defamation with a permanent record, such as a newspaper, website posting, email, picture or a radio or television
broadcast.

Notice of Libel
Employees served with a notice of libel are responsible for notifying management as soon as possible. Note the date
and time served and the method of service.

27
Liability
Global News employees are responsible for verifying the accuracy of statements they publish or broadcast, even when
reporting what someone else said. Employee may be held responsible for a defamatory statement if they were in any
way involved with a story. Global News journalists are responsible for having their scripts and stories vetted by counsel
for potentially defamatory statements. If unsure about the libel risk in a story consult with counsel and management.

Using “Allegedly”
Using the word "allegedly" in a story does not provide legal protection from a defamation lawsuit, unless it is used in
the reporting of criminal allegations or police cases.

Deleting Stories after a Notice of Libel

While it is instinctive for news managers to want to quickly remove stories from a broadcast or the web on the basis of
a defamation complaint or an actual notice of libel, doing so could be seen later as an admission that the story was
defamatory. Discuss it with counsel before taking any action.

6.3 DEFAMATION DEFENCES

Canadian law allows for the following defences for defamation: truth, absolute privilege, qualified privilege, fair
comment, consent, responsible communication on matters of public interest.

Truth
Someone makes a statement that could hurt another person’s reputation. If the statement is true, it is a valid defence for
defamation. However, rules concerning the admissibility of evidence in Court can make it difficult to prove the truth.

Absolute Privilege
Statements made in Parliament, and statements made as evidence at a trial or in Court documents are two examples of
absolute privilege. Absolute privilege does not apply if those statements are repeated outside a courtroom or Parliament.

Qualified Privilege
Unlike absolute privilege, a qualified privilege defence is not available if the defamatory words were published
maliciously. For example, a former employee gives John Smith’s name as a reference to a new employer who calls him
up. John responds honestly and says that the employee did not show strong leadership skills while working for you. As
long as John made the comment without malice, to no more people than necessary, he would be protected from a
defamation suit.

Media can rely on a qualified privilege defence when reporting on proceedings of legislative bodies and documents
issued by government and public officials, provided the reporting is fair and accurate.

Fair Comment
A journalist writes a story about a Member of Parliament who says he supports equal rights but opposes same-sex
marriages. In the story, the journalist calls the MP hypocritical. If the MP sues for defamation, the journalist has the
defence of fair comment, provided the story sets out the facts upon which the comment is based and is reported without
malice.

Consent
Defamatory statements can be defended on the basis that the defamed person consented to the reporting of the
defamatory statements.

Responsible Communication on Matters of Public Interest

In December 2009, the Supreme Court of Canada established this new defence for libel. The court said that journalists,
broadcasters and publishers may report statements and allegations even if it turns out they are not true, if:

1. there was a public interest in distributing the information to a wider audience,

2. the journalist took the appropriate steps to verify the defamatory information.

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6.4 Responsible Communication Defence
Under the responsible communication defence, a defamatory statement will be defensible if the publication and
broadcast was in the public interest, and the broadcaster or publisher was diligent in efforts to verify the accuracy of the
defamatory statements. In this regard, the Court will look at the following factors:

1. the seriousness of the allegation;

2. the public importance of the matter;
3. the urgency of the matter;
4. the status and reliability of the sources;
5. whether the Plaintiff’s position was sought and accurately reported;
6. whether the inclusion of the defamatory statement was justifiable;
7. whether public interest lay in the fact that the statement was made rather than its truth;
8. any other relevant considerations.

Getting the Other Side of the Story

Make sufficient efforts to obtain the views of the Plaintiff before publishing or broadcasting a story. Provide specifics
of allegations against a person or company so they can make an informed decision as to whether they wish to comment.
Take into account how “media savvy” the subject is. It might be appropriate to expect a company with a media relations
department to respond quickly to a request for comment, but the same expectation may not be reasonable when the
story involves a small business.

The Courts will likely not accept tight deadlines as sufficient reason for why Global News did not hold off on
broadcasting or publishing a story until it was able to verify the facts and obtain the other side of the story. The more
serious the allegations, the more the Court will expect extra effort to obtain the Plaintiff’s comments and that more time
be allowed for the Plaintiff to respond.

Record all your efforts to get the Plaintiff to comment, and note all phone calls or visits and any details you provided
about the allegations. If you surprised the Plaintiff with allegations during the original interview, it may be appropriate
to provide another opportunity to clarify their comments (see 8.4 Unscheduled Interviews). If the Plaintiff will not
comment, consider other sources to obtain their views. It may be that the Plaintiff’s family or lawyer will comment or
respond as a designate. Alternatively, research whether the Plaintiff’s position concerning the allegation has been
broadcast or published in other media or is available in Court documents. If so, the Plaintiff’s views as described by
these other sources.

It is inevitable that a Plaintiff will try to take advantage of statements left out of a story by arguing that their position
was not fully reflected. Consequently, it is best to include as much of the Plaintiff’s version of events as possible. If the
Plaintiff’s comments or statements are lengthy, include the ones that address specific allegations. Consider posting the
rest of the Plaintiff’s comments or statements online and directing viewers to these additional statements.

Notes / Documents and Story Discussions

When it comes to the responsible communication defence, it is very important to take good notes when preparing a
story. Notes will later be used to support testimony in Court that Global News acted fairly and took the appropriate
steps to verify the defamatory statements. Do not include in the notes any offhand negative comments about the subject
of the story. Such comments might suggest we did not approach the story in a fair, balanced and professional manner

Any discussions, professional or personal, about a news story may be relevant to any future legal proceeding even if the
journalist thought it was a private conversation at the time. Those discussions can include email, text messages, and/or
comments made at an editorial meeting, in the newsroom or to a friend.

The length of time to keep notes or documents depends on the specific limitation or notice period relating to defamation
actions in the province where the story was broadcast or published. In Ontario, Plaintiffs must deliver a libel notice
within six (6) weeks of the date they became aware of the allegedly defamatory comments. In British Columbia, the
limitation period is two (2) years. A defamation lawsuit can be brought in any province or other country if a story was
posted on a website and accessed in another jurisdiction. If a story is published on a website, retain notes or documents
for at least two (2) years.

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6.5 SUBPOENAS & WARRANTS
Global News policy is to resist subpoenas, production orders and warrants for news video, edited or unedited. We will
not turn over edited or unedited news footage requested as part of a lawsuit against Global News or a third party
without being served with a proper subpoena, production order or search warrant.

1. Do not delete, destroy or hide subpoenaed material.

2. Never ignore a subpoena or search warrant; doing so could result in a fine or even jail time.
3. Anticipate the likelihood of being served with subpoena or warrant; make copies or dubs of documents or
video for ongoing use in case the original material is removed.

What to do when served with a Subpoena or Warrant

1. Immediately notify Global News management, who will contact counsel.

2. Note the date and time and how the warrant was delivered.
3. In consultation with police, try to delay searches until counsel is able to examine the warrant.
4. In the case of a subpoena, do not comply before you consult counsel. Do not agree to cooperate immediately,
because that could cost Global News any available protection under the law.
5. In the case of a warrant, record or photograph the entire process.
6. In the case of a warrant, insist the video or other material be placed in a sealed envelope or box so it will not
be reviewed by the authorities or law enforcement until such time as a Court has determined the merits of our
objections.

GLOBALNEWS.CA
7.0 ONLINE NEWSGATHERING
Copyright, defamation laws, proper sourcing, verification, attribution, balance and journalistic ethics apply equally to
Global News digital properties, whether on a website, live blog, mobile site, application, email or social media
networks such as Twitter or Facebook. The character limits of social media and networking sites are no excuse for
incomplete, unbalanced or inaccurate reporting.

Online News Sources

Do not consider other news websites as primary sources. Global News is responsible for making sure that reports from
online sources as well as video and photos from the web are authentic and have not been altered in any way.

Exclusive Stories
Post original, enterprise or exclusive breaking news stories to Globalnews.ca websites first, before being sending out
via social media. Tweets include a link to our Globalnews.ca websites.

Breaking News on Social Media

As a general rule, breaking news should be posted on globalnews.ca websites first. However, you may post spot news
and developments in ongoing daily news stories on social media before a story appears on Globalnews.ca websites. It is
essential you follow up on breaking news tweets as soon as more information becomes available.

Uploading to Public Sharing Sites

Global News employees must not upload any Global News content, edited or unedited, to public sharing sites such as
Facebook or YouTube without management approval. News management will determine whether brand extension or
driving traffic is the priority based on the circumstances.

Sharing Content with Other Media

Consider all other media organizations and blogs as competition and do not share content with a competitor or
syndication partner prior to publication on Globalnews.ca websites. The sharing of Global News content with other
news media is contingent on a mandatory “Global News” credit, except in the case of a regular or contracted

30
syndication partner. If Global News video or audio is requested by a competitor, we will provide an embed code so that
traffic is driven back to Globalnews.ca (currently, embed codes do not work with still images).

“Un-publishing” Digital News Content

Global News will generally not remove or delete digital news content on the basis of a request or complaint from the
public, or in the case of sources who want to withdraw their comments after the fact. Exceptions to this policy would
include, but are not limited to, major errors, serious ethical violations, publication bans or other legal restrictions and
serious public safety issues. If we make a digital content error or new relevant facts come to light, we should publish a
correction or update. Do not attempt to erase digital content and hope that it goes unnoticed. Corrections or updates
should be unambiguous.

External Links
As a general rule, we do not send broadcast viewers directly to external websites. When mentioning external websites
on our news programs, refer viewers to local Global News websites to find the link.

Funds for Victims

When the local community launches a fundraising drive or a bank account for crime or other victims, the information
should be posted on our local website and not as part of a broadcast. We are responsible for verifying and monitoring
such links until they are removed. Management will decide on a case-by-case basis whether to post these links.

7.1 SOCIAL MEDIA

This Global News social media policy is based on Shaw Media’s business conduct standards as well as best practices
from the journalism industry.

Employees are responsible for making sure they are familiar with the most recent version of these standards, which may
be revised regularly. Shaw Media’s business conduct standards state:

“All Global News employees are responsible for using sound judgment when using company computer
networks and technology, particularly when accessing or sending information electronically. The proper use
of electronic media protects the company from risk. Irresponsible or inappropriate use of e-mail services, the
internet, virtual private network (VPN), external mail servers, messaging services, unauthorized software or
computer networks could result in a violation of law or company policy. This restriction includes the
downloading, sending or resending of pornographic or other unlawful or inappropriate material (e.g.
gambling, gaming). Management has sole discretion to determine what constitutes inappropriate material.
Violations of this company policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.”

Employees are accountable 24/7 for what they publish on social media and the internet, on or off the job. Employees
engaged in social media, on the job or during personal time, are advised that all company policies apply, including but
not limited to, harassment, sexual harassment, bullying and the disclosure of confidential or proprietary information.
Global News and any of its employees may be sued for defamation for comments made on social media, including
personal blogs or personal social media accounts. Further:

The fundamental rule is not to express anything while using social media that you could not express on a Global News
broadcast or on one of our Globalnews.ca websites. That includes profanity and obscene imagery.

1. do not write or say anything while using social media that could cast doubt on the impartiality of yourself or
Global News or lead to the perception of bias or conflict of interest, real or apparent;

i. 1

31
 Example:

Octavia Nasr, then CNN’s Senior Editor of Mideast Affairs, tweeted her sympathies after the death of a
Hezbollah leader.

The 20-year CNN veteran agreed soon afterwards to leave the company. An internal memo stated that she had
compromised her credibility.

2. while making observations and providing analysis is a part of the job, you can do so without
expressing opinions, editorializing or sharing personal feelings;
3. do not insult or “trash talk” fans, teams, companies or celebrities on social media when it comes to sports,
entertainment and lifestyle news. Do not engage in personal attacks;
4. disclose your Global News or Shaw Media business affiliation in some way on work and personal
accounts. Do not publish anonymously or use an avatar or username that conceals your real identity;
5. do not share email, memos, policy books, internal procedures, strategies and other information dealing
with the company, station or department via social media or the Internet. This includes information
shared during corporate, town hall, general staff or department meetings.
6. do feel free share information about your daily life but be aware of the potential for the public to perceive
your statements as an endorsement or an impartial stance.

Example:

The tweet below wasn’t meant as an endorsement of a New York City hotel, but a Twitter follower perceived it as
one.
Do not accept money, gifts, discounts or other special treatment in exchange for your social media activity. Do not
solicit donations or sell tickets, even for a worthy cause.

Engaging the Public

Make an effort to respond positively in a timely manner to legitimate criticism, compliments, corrections and
thoughtful comments from members of the public. Your sources may also want to keep in touch this way.

These are social networks, after all, and conversation is a part of the medium. While you do not have to respond to
all messages, a heartfelt response could mean a lot to a member of our audience.

Example:

A viewer missed the TV segment, but was directed to the online version.

Another example:

In this case, a family member in an ongoing suspicious death case reached out to the Global News journalist.

Depending on the context, responding to an audience member with a retweet/share and/or a like/favourite could be
appropriate.
33
GLOBAL NEWS JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
Example: This is an unsolicited weather-related photo from an audience member tweeted to a Global News
meteorologist. The Global staffer retweeted and favourited in response

However, remember that any social media response to a user or viewer is by its nature public and could cause
potential embarrassment or damage to the credibility of Global News.

When correcting or disagreeing with the views of the public, ensure your responses are appropriate and polite.

Example:

34
GLOBAL NEWS JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
Do not engage members of the public on social media who are abusive, angry, racist or use graphic language. Resist
the urge to “subtweet” or make passive-aggressive remarks about the audience, your competitors or your co-
workers.

Comments About the Company

Employees may participate in reasonable exchanges and comments about the company using social media and other
websites. This can help “lift the veil” for our audience members, who are often fascinated with what goes on behind
the scenes.

Sharing non-exclusive details about your newsgathering process is encouraged as it may help to draw attention to
your work.

Example: This journalist shared a humorous detail of an upcoming interview that doesn’t reveal anything that the
competition can act upon.

35
GLOBAL NEWS JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
However, those who make disparaging remarks that could damage the reputation and credibility of the company, or
those who reveal competitive or confidential information, may be subject to disciplinary measures up to and
including termination.

Resist gallows humour or anything that may be misconstrued as insensitive regarding the often serious events and
issues we cover.

Example: This photo from the scene of a double homicide was posted to the Instagram account of Florida-based
Fox news reporter Jackie Orozco. It made the news for all the wrong reasons

The WOFL reporter quickly apologized.

It is important to reveal in some way that it is a Global News or Shaw Media employee commenting about the
company on social media or websites. This includes company brands, products, services or its reputation.

36
GLOBAL NEWS JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
You should include your Global News connection in your social media biography sections. Consider including a
variation of the following disclaimer in your social media bios:

“The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent the position, opinions or strategy of
Global News and Shaw Media.”

Example: This staffer’s Global News affiliations are clearly marked on her bio, along with a disclaimer about
retweets and a way to contact her privately.

Posting Global News Content

Employees have no special rights to post Global News content on personal social media accounts, personal sharing
sites or personal blogs without the prior management approval.

Friends and Following

Good journalistic reasons exist for connecting with people via social media, but consider carefully who to “friend”
on sites like Facebook or “follow” on Twitter. Be prepared to defend or explain why a Global News employee
shows up as a “friend” or “likes” something on a politician’s public Facebook page. Inspect your “friends” list
regularly to look for conflicts with potential newsmakers. Use the same caution when joining private or public
groups on Facebook or LinkedIn and remove yourself from any questionable groups that are no longer relevant to
your newsgathering process.

Consider carefully any personal information posted publicly on Facebook. The public may perceive bias in an
employee’s political or religious views, for example.

Managers should not send “friend” requests to subordinate employees unless they are unambiguously invited to do
so.

7.2 Verification of User-Generated Content (UGC)

Social media can be very useful in finding new sources, contacts and story ideas.

37
GLOBAL NEWS JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
It’s also great for boosting engagement.

Often we are able to create new stories from user-generated content (UGC).

These sources should be treated the same as any other source — attempts must be made to verify the identity
behind the social media account as well as the authenticity of the information being shared.

This also helps to strengthen our relationship with the community — our audience.

Example:

The last name of the user quoted in a “streeter” story could be gleaned by sending “Eileen” a DM or
tweet.

Sometimes further verification is needed, either by contacting the social media source over the phone or in person or
by looking at metadata and other clues.
38
GLOBAL NEWS JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
Example: Global Winnipeg staff tracked a photo posted on Reddit of what appears to be Winnipeg's mayor possibly
texting and driving by reaching out to the Redditor and checking the photo’s meta data. (It couldn’t be verified and
Global didn’t run a story.)

Example: In this situation, media outlets contact a user for permission to use the UGC and to verify that the photo
was legitimate.

39
GLOBAL NEWS JOURNALISTIC PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
7.3 TWEETING AND RETWEETING
Tweeting breaking news is an ongoing reporting process that requires Global News to frequently update or correct
tweets as new information becomes available.

Example: In the situation below, TTC authorities initially gave out incorrect information about when a TTC
issue would clear.

When TTC updated the info, so did we.

While retweets are not necessarily considered endorsements of the original tweet, they do link the Global News
brand and reputation to the contents and author of the original tweet. Do not retweet comments that may be
defamatory.

7.4 LIVE TWEETING

Your audience on social media follow you in part because you are their window to the world. By regularly providing
timely and accurate tweets, your audience will be better informed about the events you cover. You may also pick up
new followers who are interested in the news you cover. Additionally, your tweets can be incorporated on
Globalnews.ca in the form of liveblogs, embedded tweets and other content that reach an even wider audience in
real time. Abide by the social media policy contained in Section 7.1, Social Media. Employ these tips when live
tweeting breaking news events

Before Live Tweeting

Look up relevant hashtags related to the event you are covering so you can tap into the conversation. Twitter will
often display trending hashtags in the Discovery area, and other tools such as Trendsmap can be useful. In a

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breaking news situation, there may be several hashtags in use. One generally becomes more popular as time goes on.
Topsy.com analytics area can show the usage of up to three hashtags at a time.

Look up Twitter users who seem to be at the centre of the story. These people or organizations are mentioned
frequently along with the hashtags. Note their handles, either to @mention in your tweets or to contact as potential
sources.

A tip from Natasha Pace in Halifax: “I write some point-form (research) notes on my iPhone and when I'm
live tweeting, if there is a bit of a lull during proceedings, I can throw some background facts in between
live tweets to keep the momentum going.”

Check with the online team to see if your tweets will be pulled into a Scribblelive blog. Ask for the short link so you
can share it with your followers.

Inform your followers about the event you will be attending. This is beneficial for several reasons: it establishes you
as an observer on the scene, and lets your followers know they can expect more tweets about this topic.

If a follower complains that they don’t want to see tweets from you on this topic, let them know about the MUTE
function.

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After this tweet, ONLY tweet about the topic you are planning to cover until the event is over .

During Live Tweeting

When you arrive, tweet a photo or short Vine video from the scene stating you are at the event.

You may also choose to Instagram a photo or video and tweet out the link, but be aware that these are not displayed
on Twitter and therefore aren’t as effective.

If there is a delay or pause, tell your followers when the event will resume.

Tweet about your observations, not your feelings or opinions.

Use your news judgment when tweeting about contentious or upsetting topics, as Amy Minsky did during the Luka
Magnotta trial.

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You are encouraged to tweet out quotes from speakers or interviews that you have conducted. Be clear when you are
quoting. Use quotation marks or a colon plus the speaker’s name.

Use full names whenever possible on first reference and then continue to use full names periodically for the benefit
of Twitter users who may be seeing your tweets out of context.
Take photos and videos throughout the event.

Don’t worry so much about the composition - it doesn’t need to be perfect. Even a slightly blurry iPhone photo can
be valuable if it gives the public a better idea of the situation on the ground.

Credit photos that are not your own. Do not use photo that you don’t have permission to use. Photos taken by
someone from your own organization is acceptable but not from a competing organization. Be extremely wary of
sharing photos that seem to be going “viral” but may not be legitimate.

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Although all User-Generated Content is fair game, we try to get permission to use images whenever possible.

If your device is dying, let your followers know that you may drop off.

Do not tweet about anything off-topic. This includes retweets.

Don’t retweet or otherwise disseminate information that you haven’t independently verified. Be clear if information
is unconfirmed. Attribute information to a reliable source, such as the police.

If you are part of a two person team, it is ideal to tag team the live tweeting. Natasha Pace and ENG Camera
operator/editor Cory McGraw have this technique done to a science.

“If I'm in the courtroom or legislature live tweeting what's happening inside, Cory will be tweeting what's
going on outside, the mood, posting pictures or giving background on the issue,” says Natasha. “This
requires some planning sometimes, but we get followers in bunches that will follow both of us and it's a
nice to be ahead of the competition and provide more context.”

After Live Tweeting

Tweet to your followers that the event has ended or that you have finished your coverage. Thank them for following
along.

If you are filing a story for online or broadcast or will be doing other followup coverage, let your followers know. If
there’s a liveblog, share the link and invite your followers to catch up on what they may have missed.

Answer any tweets directed at you that you may have missed while live-tweeting.

If your wrap-up appears online, share that link when it becomes available.

7.5 LINKING TO EXTERNAL SOURCES

Global News does not pretend to be the sole destination for news and information. We link to external sites and
information when it advances our coverage of a story or beat.

On social media, tweeting links to relevant information and stories by other news organizations can help individual
journalists build their authority as specialists on particular topics.

However, consider that the time spent sharing links with your social media following could be spent ensuring that
Global News has a similar story. If Global News already has a similar story or is planning to match the story,
consider sharing that link instead.

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In the spirit of collegiality, it’s OK to acknowledge the successes of our competitors such as awards or scoops and to
link to them if you feel that your audience would benefit. Our competition often does the same.

Examples:

On all platforms, links should enhance our sourcing and be fair and balanced. Because we can’t verify information
from other news organizations, tweets containing links to the competition and other external sources require ongoing
monitoring. If you are unsure, err on the side of not retweeting news from the competition.

INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
8.0 PRINCIPLES
Do not broadcast or publish an investigative report until it is clear that the facts and evidence support the editorial
conclusions and that the story is vetted and screened by management and, if necessary, legal counsel. Do not
deliberately undertake any act in the pursuit of an investigative story that could threaten the personal safety of
another person or cause damage to property.

Source Protocol
The more serious the allegations against a person or company, the more important it is to go beyond the two (2)
source protocol and find a third independent source to confirm important information. Only management can make
the rare decision to rely on a single source making serious allegations or claims of fact. Use firsthand sources,
eyewitness accounts and authentic documents to confirm important facts and statements. Independently confirm
information provided to Global News by confidential sources.

Withholding/False Identity
Journalist should seek prior management approval and the advice of counsel before assuming a false identity or
withholding their identity in order to gather information of importance to the public or to infiltrate an organization.
Consider assuming a false identity only if:

1. it is necessary to investigate violent, discriminatory, illegal, criminal or harmful activities or the abuse of
trust;
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 2. credible information exists that violent, discriminatory, illegal, criminal or harmful activities or the abuse of
trust are taking place;
3. using your true identity would mean little chance of obtaining information about violent, discriminatory,
illegal, criminal or harmful activities or the abuse of trust:
4. your personal safety is a concern in pursuing information about violent, discriminatory, illegal, criminal or
harmful activities or the abuse of trust.

Intercepting Electronic Communications

Do not intercept email communication or text messages, or make use of email obtained by a third party through
criminal interception. Do not induce anyone to engage in the criminal interception of email or text messages.

Removal of Property
While in the pursuit of an investigative story, do not remove any property including documents, video and audio
recordings, photos or any type of electronic data, public or private without the knowledge or consent of the owner.

Knowledge of a Criminal Act

Immediately notify appropriate authorities if you learn about potential crimes that may result in serious physical
harm or the loss of life, including, but not limited to, sexual assault, arson and murder.

8.1 LEAKS
When leaked material concerns legal matters or national security, refer it to management and legal counsel to
determine liability. Legal counsel must review all leaked material obtained illegally by a third party. If Global News
agrees to protect the identity of a confidential source, ensure that the leaked material itself does not inadvertently
identify the source.

8.2 CONFIDENTIAL SOURCES

A promise of confidentiality for a source must be approved by management. Such approval is contingent on the
promise being necessary to obtain important, reliable information for a story of sufficient public interest to warrant
the potential consequences:

1. the value of the story will be diminished because the public cannot fully assess the reliability of the
information if the source is not identified;
2. our ability to defend such a story against a lawsuit may be compromised because it will not be possible to
call on the source to testify as a witness;
3. we may incur significant legal costs in protecting the identity of a source if a legal action is commenced or
a search warrant issued;
4. we may find ourselves in criminal breach of a Court order requiring disclosure of the source’s identity or be
put in a position where we must break the promise of confidentiality.

Specific Terms of Confidentiality

Decide on specific terms when promising confidentiality to a source, such:

1. not revealing the source’s identity in the story, but revealing the source’s identity if necessary to
defend against a legal action or where a search warrant or production order issued by the Court;
2. not voluntarily revealing the source’s identity, unless Global News is of the view that such disclosure
is required by law;
3. not voluntarily revealing the source’s identity and resisting any attempt by a third party to compel
disclosure by the Court, but complying with a Court order if attempts to resist such legal efforts fail;
4. not revealing the source’s identity under any circumstances. This promise may entail breaching a Court
order and could result in criminal contempt of Court;
5. revealing the identity of a source to a Global News manager and legal counsel;
6. making a promise of confidentiality on the condition that the agreement with the source will be
terminated if Global News honestly believes the source has not been truthful.

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If circumstances dictate that a promise of confidentiality must be made quickly, without an opportunity to consult
with management, carefully consider 3 and 4 above before broadcasting or publishing the story.

Clearly explain the terms and conditions of a promise of confidentiality to the source before confidential information
is communicated. A Court is less likely to respect a promise of confidentiality if the promise is made after the
information has already been communicated. If management later determines that the promise of confidentiality
was not warranted, consider omitting the information provided by the source to reduce the risk that a third party will
seek the identity of the confidential source.

8.3 HIDDEN CAMERA

Obtain management approval and seek legal counsel before any hidden camera shoot. Balance the need to conduct
video surveillance with an individual’s right to privacy. Accordingly, justify material obtained by way of a hidden
camera shoot based on the following criteria:

1. the information uncovered is of great importance, vital public interest or may prevent harm to human
life or property;
2. a demonstrable, evidentiary need for the collection of the information;
3. the purpose of collecting the information is that which a reasonable person would consider appropriate
in the circumstances;
4. harm prevented by the deception and loss of privacy outweighs harm that could be caused without the
deception;
5. less privacy-invasive methods or alternatives to obtain the information and achieve the same end are
unavailable;
6. collection of the information is limited to that which is necessary to achieve the stated purpose;
7. information collected by the surveillance actually achieves the stated purpose.

Follow-up Interview
Hidden camera or audio recordings showing violent, discriminatory, illegal, criminal or hazardous activities or the
abuse of trust require an attempt to arrange a follow-up interview with the subject so as to include that person’s
response in the story.

Third Party Hidden Camera Video

When a third party approaches Global News with hidden camera video or audio, made without the knowledge of the
people involved, we must verify the authenticity of the material and ensure it meets the same editorial criteria set out
in points 1 to 7.

8.4 UNSCHEDULED INTERVIEWS

Use unscheduled interviews as a last resort when a subject who is an essential part of the investigative story refuses
to provide an interview. Before proceeding with an unscheduled interview, clearly demonstrate to management that
the interview is critical to the story and in the public interest. Take the following steps before proceeding with an
unscheduled interview:

1. if phone calls fail to yield an interview, send an email, fax or letter specifying the allegations to which you
want the subject to respond;
2. provide the interview subject with a reasonable deadline to respond to phone calls, emails or fax;
3. note all attempts to get a standard interview;
4. be knowledgeable about private property and trespassing laws, or consult with legal counsel.

If the subject of an unscheduled interview is surprised with serious allegations, it may be appropriate to provide the
person with a subsequent opportunity to clarify their comments. Unscheduled interviews may be done in person or
by phone without the consent of the interview subject. In the case of telephone recordings, consult legal counsel

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prior to doing the interview. Use unscheduled interviews as an essential element of a story, not for dramatic or
theatrical effect.

On rare occasions when Global News suspects that an interview subject may have committed a crime, an abuse of
trust or other wrongdoing, contacting the subject in advance could cause that person to disappear. Only in these
exceptional circumstances should an unscheduled interview be conducted without making efforts to contact the
subject in advance.

8.5 RECORDING PHONE & RADIO TRANSMISSIONS

Pursuant to Canadian law, it is a criminal offence to record or listen to phone conversations without the permission
of the participants.

Recorded Phone Calls

A recorded phone conversation may be broadcast or published, provided one of the parties has consented to the
recording. In most cases, this will not be an issue since the reporter is a party to the conversation.

Research or Pre-Interview Phone Conversations

Journalists may routinely record phone conversations with sources and interview subjects without their knowledge
for information, research and pre-interview purposes. Such conversations are not intended for broadcast or
publication unless there is no other way to confirm the accuracy of important information or fairly represent a
subject’s position in a story. Broadcast or publication of research or pre-interview phone conversations is only
allowed in circumstances of overriding public interest. Seek management approval and the advice of legal counsel
before broadcasting or publishing such conversations.

Eavesdropping on a Conference Call

Do not attempt to eavesdrop or intercept a conference call unless invited to participate by another party, and
authorized to do so by Global News management. Listening in or recording a conference call may be permitted:

1. if at least one of the conference call participants gives consent and access;
2. if credible information is offered about illegal or criminal acts, violent or anti-social behaviour or the abuse
of trust;
3. if there is confidence that an open attempt to gather the information would be unsuccessful;
4. if there is reason to believe solid evidence exists that illegal or criminal acts, violent or anti-social
behaviour or the abuse of trust are taking place.

Radio Transmissions
Global News is not permitted to rebroadcast or publish encrypted, recorded radio transmissions by police, fire or
Emergency Management Services (EMS) or encrypted, recorded radio transmissions between aircraft and air traffic
controllers. However, it permitted to report the information obtained by monitoring these transmissions. Global
News may rebroadcast or publish such encrypted transmissions when they are officially released by the proper
authorities.

Global News may rebroadcast or publish non-encrypted, recorded radio transmissions by police, fire, EMS, aircraft
or air traffic control. Many of these are available through public websites and considered to be in the public domain.

8.6 TRESPASSING
Journalists have no special rights when it comes to trespassing, defined as:

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“setting foot on the property of another without consent or an unauthorized entry upon land lawfully
occupied, possessed or owned by another person.”

Global News is generally free to record and report what we observe in public places and private places on view to
the public.

Public Places
Journalists may enter public places, i.e., those places where it is reasonable to assume an open invitation to enter the
premises exists, with cameras rolling, unless notice is given that such activity is not allowed. They should comply
with the property owner or a designate if asked to leave the property and/or stop shooting. If they do not, they are
trespassing and the owner can use appropriate force to remove them, or have the police remove them. Trespassing
can also result in a civil action or criminal prosecution.

Private Residences
Entering a private residence or walking on private property is trespassing, except by the owner’s invitation.
Journalists may reasonably assume there is an invitation to use the walkway and knock on the door to make
appropriate enquiries with the camera rolling. They should comply with the property owner or a designate if asked
to leave the property and/or stop shooting. If they do not, they are trespassing and the owner can use the appropriate
force to remove them or have the police remove them. Trespassing can also result in a civil action or criminal
prosecution.

Fences and Signs

If a business or residential property is surrounded by a fence, it is reasonable to conclude journalists are not
authorized to enter without permission. Similarly, signs posted on a property that say "No Trespassing" or "Private
Property" are a clear indication journalists are not authorized to enter.

Conditions of Entry
The property owner or a designate has the right to impose conditions or restrictions on entering a property through
verbal discourse, a posted sign or other types of notice. For example, if signs posted at a concert venue or a notice on
the back of a concert ticket advise that photography is not allowed, entry is conditional on agreeing not to take
photos or shoot video. Those who do not abide by those conditions are trespassing, and the property owner or a
designate can insist they leave.

Access to Crime Scenes

When police or others provide journalists with access to a property, they are doing so at their discretion, not because
the media has a special right to be there.

Matters of Public Interest

Journalists should not operate under the assumption that they can enter a property because they are pursuing a matter
of public interest. If, in the course of shooting in a private place, a journalist comes upon an alleged crime in
progress or some other situation the public should know about, Global News may decide to broadcast and publish
those images. However, the images could be used against you as evidence of trespass.

NEWS PRODUCTION
9.0 EDITING
Editing must accurately reflect the spirit, context, tone and reality of news events and interviews. Do not manipulate
or change the meaning or sense of an interview. Make sincere efforts to use an interview subject’s best answer to a
question. Avoid mixing and matching questions and answers or presenting them out of sequence. In cases where the
interview subject is accused of wrongdoing, breach of trust or any contentious action, it is imperative both ethically
and legally to allow subjects the best possible opportunity to express their position, views or opinions.

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9.1 CUTAWAYS
Reverse shots and cutaways may be recorded out of sequence but they must not distort actual events. Reverse
questions should conform to the original questions in both content and tone. Whenever possible, record reverse
questions in the presence of the interview subject or a representative.

When shooting cutaways, journalists should not nod, smile or gesture in a way that could suggest agreement or
disagreement. During two-camera interview shoots, journalists may register appropriate facial expressions, but they
should not suggest agreement or disagreement.

9.2 USE OF SOUND

For daily news stories, use only natural sound recorded in the field at the same time and place as the video. When
video with natural sound is edited together with silent video, audio “holes” my be filled in with natural sound.

The use of “wild” sound to cover silent pictures is allowed, provided the sound was recorded in the field at the same
time and place as the video.

Do not sweeten the audio in a news story by way of amplifying or “effecting” it to make it more dramatic. This does
not preclude simple adjustments of volume for sound-ups or voice-over narration.

9.3 MUSIC
Using music without permission makes us more vulnerable to copyright infringement because it is usually obvious
who the composer, band or performer is. Global Television has a blanket licence from the Society of Composers
Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN). This license allows broadcasters to “publically perform”
anything in SOCAN's repertoire which includes popular music from around the world, under limited circumstances,
without needing to clear the rights for a piece of music.

Needle Drop
Global’s license with SOCAN allows for the use commercial music sparingly, in what is referred to as a “needle-
drop” for in/out bumpers over live shots under these terms:

1. the music is played live to air from an authorized store-purchased CD. This might also apply to a song or
album purchased online in digital form, however, individual terms and conditions for the download may
prohibit a “needle drop”;
2. other than for "logger" tape recordings as required by the CRTC, no copy can be made or retained of the
music as it appears in the news program;
3. the proper music cue sheet (duration, composer, publisher) is filled out and forwarded to SOCAN;
4. it is good practice to give the author and source of the music an on-screen credit over the live shot.

As a general rule, commercial music should not be used in pre-edited or pre-recorded segments or daily news stories
without acquiring the proper licenses from the appropriate rights owners. Commercial music may be used sparingly
in lighter feature reports after clearing rights. Use only as much of a song as is required editorially to illustrate the
story. Never use songs in their entirety. Our policy is :15 seconds or less. If unsure how to proceed on matters of
music clearance and copyright, consult with counsel.

When to Use Music

Music, like pictures, has meaning and can stir different emotions. It adds to the way viewers interpret what they are
watching. Do not use music to ridicule subjects or make them appear more ominous or threatening. Avoid music use
in daily news reports, unless the music itself is part of the event, such as a parade or performance. Such music, once
established in its real setting, may recur at other points in the story where it makes sense. More latitude exists for
using music in news features, documentaries, current affairs and newsmagazine programs, but it only in a way
consistent with the tone and context of the story or segment.

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9.4 FILE VIDEO
Use file video sparingly. Shoot as much original material as possible for a news story.

Do not use file video that could cast a negative or unflattering light on a person or company that is not connected to
the story. For example, when reporting on medical malpractice, it is not a good idea to use file video from another
story showing a doctor examining a patient. This could be grounds for a defamation suit. Global News is responsible
for verifying whether the facts or circumstances portrayed in file video have changed. For example, a man who was
originally shot on video being arrested could subsequently have been acquitted on all charges. Do not use file video
to create the impression that Global News is reporting on a current story.

9.5 RE-ENACTMENTS
Use re-enactments judiciously. Seek management approval, clearly label as a re-enactment, and ensure it is a faithful
reproduction of the original event. It is common practice to ask interview subjects walk down a hallway, work at a
desk or talk on the phone B-roll related to the interview. This is an acceptable practice as long as the interview
subject is not asked to perform any action or task that they would not ordinarily do on their own. If a re-enactment is
based on one person’s version of an event, but other versions differ, disclose those differences to the audience. If a
point-of-view camera angle is used, make it clear that the viewer is not seeing the actual event as it occurred.

Do not use actors should in daily news coverage to recreate an event. However, actors are occasionally permitted in
documentary, current affairs or newsmagazine programs when all the relevant facts are already known to the public
or to simulate historical events.

ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP

10.0 PRINCIPLES
Global News will not accept any attempt by a sponsor, advertising client or sales department to influence or alter
editorial content. Commercial advertising or sponsorship should simulate news reporting or editorial content. A
sponsor’s name or brand should not appear as part of the title of any Global newscast, investigative, current affairs
or newsmagazine program. Sponsorship of consumer advocacy or investigative segments within Global News
programming is discouraged because of the greater potential for conflict of interest.

Approvals
Global News management must approve any sales pitch to a client that includes news opportunities or segments. We
reserve the right to refuse sales commitments that include conditions or promises made without the consent or
knowledge of Global News management.

Subject to approval by management, a limited number of editorial segments may be sponsored during daily Global
News programs and on websites. Global News management has the sole discretion to determine the suitability of a
sponsor for any news program or segment. Sponsors that may represent a conflict of interest, real or apparent, may
be prohibited.

Brand Association
Global News does not permit the use of its brand, i.e., set, logo, graphics, personalities, in connection with any
advertisement, sponsorship, promotion, commercial, testimonial, endorsement or giveaway without the consent of
news management.

Limited use of Global News branding in certain promotions and community partnerships is allowed, but only when
grounded in sound journalism and with the approval of news management. In circumstances where Global News
branding is allowed as part of a promotion or community partnership, our brand should be separated from the
sponsor’s brand as much as possible.
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Mentioning a Sponsor
In certain circumstances, and with the prior management approval, designated Global News on-air talent may
mention the name of a sponsor within a broadcast, provided they do not use any prop to illustrate the product or
service.

Potential Conflict with a Sponsor

In the case of a news report that could be viewed by a sponsor as antithetical or negative, Global News is not
obligated to provide the sponsor or sales department with a script, dubs or specific content details. It is good
practice to inform management of the potential for such conflict in advance of broadcast or publication. News may
alert the sales department to the conflict so that they can drop commercials if necessary and prepare for a call from
an agency or sponsor once the story airs.

Whole Sponsorship
No whole-show sponsorship is allowed for any Global newscast, investigative, current affairs, newsmagazine or talk
program. In other words, entire programs cannot be “brought to you by” a sponsor. Whole-show sponsorship may be
allowed for certain broadcast and online news specials if it is appropriate, tasteful, and approved by news
management.

Voicing Billboards
Only a non-news announcer may voice sponsor billboards. Anchors and reporters are prohibited from voicing
sponsor billboards.

Dropping Commercials for Breaking News

In the case of a major breaking news event, determine whether it is appropriate to drop or reconfigure commercials
and online digital advertisements based on circumstance and good taste. In the case of a major disaster, such as a
plane crash that may be associated with a specific airline or travel company, inform traffic and sales of the conflict
and drop any client associated advertising until otherwise notified.

10.1 USING COMMERCIALS IN NEWS STORIES

Commercials are property by copyright. Obtain permission from the company or advertising agency to use a
commercial in a Global News story or segment. In some cases, usage may fall under fair dealing. Commercials used
in a story with copyright permission must be clearly identified with an on-screen credit or web caption. Do not re-
cut commercials so sequences are altered to make it fit better into a news story.

LICENSING CONTENT
11.0 DUB REQUESTS
Do not provide dubs of edited or unedited news video without management consent. Do not provide dubs or links of
edited Global News stories that have already been broadcast or published to any commercial or for-profit enterprises
that could use that content to endorse or sell a product or service.

Dubs may be provided to charitable, volunteer, community or other non-commercial or non-profit groups at the
discretion of management. These groups may include educational institutions, professional associations or
government agencies that want to use our content for teaching or training purposes. These organizations should
provide details of their request in writing. Make it clear that Global News owns the copyright, the content must be
for internal, personal or training use only, and no additional copies can be made. Do not allow Global News stories
to be uploaded to any website without our express written permission. If an organization is allowed to upload Global
News content to their website, establish a reasonable time limit after which our content should be removed.

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11.1 LICENSING CONTENT FROM OUTSIDE SOURCES
Global News policy is to license outside content, i.e., freelance, stringer or amateur video for use, distribution and
repurposing on all platforms, preferably on an exclusive basis. If the seller will license the outside content for a
single program, purpose or platform only, inform the network resources desk as soon as possible so restrictions can
be immediately communicated to all network affiliates, partners and other clients.

Purchasing Outside Content

The purchase of exclusive outside content sometimes often needs to be arranged in a hurry or we risk losing it to
another news organization. The content should be purchased for distribution across all Global News platforms and
potentially for relicensing to other interested buyers. Use the following basic checklist for writing up an agreement
for purchase on short notice:

1. Suggest wording: “We would like to buy all the exclusive) rights to (content) for all Global News media,
for use by our affiliates and clients worldwide, in all media, in perpetuity.”
2. Include the fee paid, name of the individual, company, the company representative, regular mail and email
addresses and phone numbers.
3. Include a brief description of the content and the source.
4. Determine the exact wording of a credit or courtesy if required.

11.2 OUTSIDE REQUESTS TO PURCHASE GLOBAL NEWS CONTENT

Requests from commercial businesses or producers to license Global News video or file for purposes such as
“caught on tape” programs, documentaries, publishing, software and other for-profit ventures, should be forwarded
to the National Director, Editorial Content & Online News, or a designate.

WEARING SYMBOLS
12.0 RIBBONS, PINS & RELIGIOUS ICONS
On-air employees should not wear any ribbons, pins, buttons, t-shirts or any other identifying symbol on behalf of a
charity, business or sponsor. These restrictions extend to patriotic symbols and any religious icons or other symbols
that may be visible to viewers.

12.1 POPPIES
Wear poppies on air from November 1 through November 11, but no earlier. While some people have argued that
Remembrance Day officially ends at noon on November 11; out of respect for Canadian veterans, Global News on-
air employees may continue to wear poppies through early evening and late news programs on Remembrance Day.

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