A ONE hundred per cent ‘Yes’ vote in favour of strike action was the result of the second ballot at North London & Herts Newspapers, owned by Sir Ray Tindle.
The rock-solid declaration – which included the editor joining the ballot for the first time – was the result of management’s refusal to meet or even discuss the desperate situation at the Enfield-based papers, where two thirds of the newsdesk have left without being replaced.
Even before their two-week strike two months ago there were just THREE reporters churning out nine newspapers. Since then, one of the three has handed in her notice, meaning they are now faced with the impossible situation of TWO reporters writing nine papers with no word on her replacement. Not only that but since the action, management has cut freelance cover for photographic, production and editorial.
Jonathan Lovett, Father of the Chapel, said: “The latest cuts and suicidal policy of non-replacement is final proof that Tindle couldn’t give a damn about quality papers. The man who claims he is the saviour of local newspapers is, in our experience, the destroyer as he runs once loved, award-winning publications into the ground – an insult to our readers. The battle for the soul of the local press is raging up and down the country and now is the time for chapels, journalists and concerned readers to stand up and be counted before it is too late and fantastic local papers that once made a difference in their communities are consigned to the scrap heap.”
In recognition of their fight the National Union of Journalists has chosen Enfield as the launch pad for a national campaign to save local newspapers. The public forum will take place at 6.30pm on Monday, July 4 at the Dugdale Centre, Thomas Hardy House, London Road, Enfield Town, EN2 6DS. A range of speakers including MPs and the new general secretary of the NUJ, Michelle Stanistreet, will be followed by a Q&A session featuring the Enfield Nine. All are welcome.
Notes for editors:
* North London & Herts Newspapers comprises: The Enfield Advertiser, The Edmonton Advertiser & Herald, The Winchmore Hill Advertiser & Herald, The Haringey Advertiser, The Enfield Gazette, The Barnet & Potters Bar Press, The East Barnet Press & Advertiser, The Edgware & Mill Hill Press, The
Hendon & Finchley Press.
* To find out more search:
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Phone: Father of the Chapel, Jonathan Lovett, on 07917 871 421
Gazette, Advertiser and Press on strike 