Latest news with #RobertCribb
CTV News
07-08-2025
- Health
- CTV News
London, Ont. hospital defends use of dogs in heart research amid cruelty claims
A newly published report alleges dogs are being tested on and killed for human heart research at St. Joseph's Hospital. CTV London's Reta Ismail reports. St. Joseph's Health Care in London, Ont. is facing growing public and political scrutiny following allegations that dogs are being used and killed in cardiovascular research conducted at its Lawson Health Research Institute. The allegations stem from an investigative report published Wednesday by the Investigative Journalism Bureau in partnership with National Post. The report cites whistleblowers who claim the animals are being subjected to painful and prolonged procedures as part of research into human heart attack recovery. 'They call it the secret sixth floor,' said Robert Cribb, founder of the Investigative Journalism Bureau. 'It's there that [dogs] undergo procedures, which are effectively inducing heart failure to study its recovery. They can go on for as long as three hours, according to internal study protocol documents we reviewed.' The program, according to sources cited by CTV News, has been ongoing for several years. A 2019 research paper shows medical imaging of canine hearts used in related studies. In a statement to CTV News, St. Joseph's did not deny the use of dogs in research, but said, 'The story contains several inaccuracies of fact.' The hospital emphasized the necessity of the studies, saying they aim, '… to learn more about how to accurately image post-heart attack injury and healing that we cannot yet decipher using other models.' 'No other effective models currently exist for this specific line of inquiry,' the statement added. The hospital said its approach to animal care is rooted in 'respect, excellence, and compassion,' and that all animal research is guided by 'rigorous policies and procedures' established by both provincial and national oversight bodies. However, the whistleblowers dispute those claims. According to Cribb, who reviewed photos and video shared by insiders, the conditions raise ethical concerns. 'They're caged, there appears to be no beds, there's feces in the cages, and post-surgery there's certainly high-pitched whining,' he said. Animal Justice, a Canadian advocacy group, is calling for the immediate rehoming of the animals used in the research. 'We know there are serious questions about whether this research is needed or useful,' said Lawyer Alanna Devine, director of Campaigns at Animal Justice. 'Non-animal methods are being explored in cutting-edge science around the world. Canada is falling behind and so is St. Joseph's.' Meanwhile, Ontario's Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, which regulates animal testing, acknowledged the issue in a statement to CTV News. Press Secretary Spencer Fair noted that the research received federal funding and said, 'We expect the federal government to ensure its funding recipients operate ethically, transparently, and in accordance with Ontario law.' In response to the controversy, CTV News also contacted London Health Sciences Centre. In a statement, the hospital confirmed its research institute conducts studies involving mice, rats, frogs, and pigs, but not dogs. Cribb acknowledged the importance of cardiovascular research but questioned the methods. 'Heart failure affects millions of Canadians, it's vitally important,' he said. 'The debate is over whether we need to kill dogs to do that.' CTV News reached out to Western University for comment. In a statement, the University said, 'Western is committed to the highest standards of animal care in research and teaching.' Adding that many of today's major medical and scientific breakthroughs, benefiting both humans and animals, would not have been possible without responsible animal research. 'The University takes a proactive, ethics-driven approach to research and is committed to providing the highest level of care for animals. All animal-based research activities at Western and our affiliated institutions (including Lawson) must be reviewed and approved by Western's Animal Care Committee (ACC), which oversees the Animal Ethics & Care Program. The ACC operates in alignment with the Ontario Animals for Research Act, the Canadian Council on Animal Care's Terms of Reference for Animal Care Committees and the Government of Canada's Agreement on Administration of Agency Grants and Awards by Research Institutions,' the statement reads. CTV has not been able to independently verify some of the claims made in the report.
The Market Online
07-05-2025
- Business
- The Market Online
Postmedia forges alliance to champion in-depth reporting in Canada
In a bold move to strengthen the foundations of investigative journalism in Canada, Postmedia (TSX:PNC) announced a collaborative relationship with the Investigative Journalism Bureau (IJB) The partnership will see Postmedia serve as a primary publishing platform for IJB-produced stories, significantly expanding their reach across the country through Postmedia's extensive network of publications The agreement seeks to preserve the IJB's editorial independence, a cornerstone of its credibility and success Postmedia stock (TSX:PNC.A) stock last traded at C$1.49 In a bold move to strengthen the foundations of investigative journalism in Canada, Postmedia (TSX:PNC) announced a collaborative relationship with the Investigative Journalism Bureau (IJB), to aid its work on high-calibre journalism and the essential role of a free press in a thriving democracy. The partnership will see Postmedia serve as a primary publishing platform for IJB-produced stories, significantly expanding their reach across the country through Postmedia's network of publications. This collaboration wants to ensure that impactful, deeply reported journalism reaches Canadians from coast to coast, shedding light on critical issues and holding institutions accountable. The agreement seeks to preserve the IJB's editorial independence, a cornerstone of its credibility and success. Based at the University of Toronto's Dalla Lana School of Public Health and led by award-winning journalist Robert Cribb, the IJB has become a national leader in investigative reporting. Its acclaimed projects, including The Patient Files: Hidden Stories from Inside Ontario's Hospitals and Suspended , have garnered national and international recognition for their depth, rigor, and social impact. As part of the collaboration, a rotating seat at the IJB will be established for emerging Postmedia journalists. This initiative will provide hands-on training in investigative techniques, fostering a new wave of reporters skilled in uncovering complex truths and driving public discourse. At a time when the media landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, this alliance could mean the survival of long-form, mainstream investigative journalism that can inform, engage, and empower a public that often seems like it would otherwise rather stay in the dark. 'Our collaboration with the IJB aligns closely with our values as a trusted, independent media organization committed to fostering informed communities and a robust national dialogue,' Postmedia's president and CEO, Andrew MacLeod said in a news release. 'This relationship enables us to support outstanding investigative journalism, empower the next generation of reporters, and strengthen the integrity of Canada's media landscape.' 'We deeply appreciate Postmedia's commitment to the critical work of investigative journalism,' the IJB's co-chair, Gerry Gotfrit added. 'Their support enhances our ability to tackle complex, meaningful issues, produce journalism that matters, and provide invaluable learning opportunities for journalism students and early-career professionals.' Postmedia Network Canada Corp. is the holding company that owns Postmedia Network Inc., a Canadian news media company representing more than 130 brands across multiple print, online and mobile platforms. Postmedia stock (TSX:PNC.A) stock last traded at C$1.49. Join the discussion: Find out what everybody's saying about this stock on the Postmedia Network Canada Corp. Bullboard, and check out the rest of Stockhouse's stock forums and message boards. The material provided in this article is for information only and should not be treated as investment advice. For full disclaimer information, please click here.
National Post
06-05-2025
- Business
- National Post
Postmedia Announces Collaboration with Investigative Journalism Bureau to Strengthen Canadian Journalism
Article content TORONTO — Postmedia Network Inc. ('Postmedia') is proud to announce a collaborative relationship with the Investigative Journalism Bureau (IJB), reinforcing its commitment to exceptional journalism and the vital role investigative reporting plays in Canada's democracy. Article content Article content At a time when the media industry continues to face rapid change, this relationship demonstrates Postmedia's dedication to supporting journalism of the highest calibre, including a strong focus on investigative and long-form journalism. The IJB, based at the University of Toronto's Dalla Lana School of Public Health and led by award-winning investigative journalist Robert Cribb, has established itself as a centre of excellence, producing high-impact journalism that drives public awareness, policy changes, and social progress. IJB's work continues to earn national and international recognition for its quality and impact, with acclaimed works such as The Patient Files: Hidden Stories from Inside Ontario's Hospitals and Suspended garnering widespread praise and prestigious awards. Article content 'Our collaboration with the IJB aligns closely with our values as a trusted, independent media organization committed to fostering informed communities and a robust national dialogue,' said Andrew MacLeod, President and CEO of Postmedia. 'This relationship enables us to support outstanding investigative journalism, empower the next generation of reporters, and strengthen the integrity of Canada's media landscape.' Article content Through Postmedia's role as a primary publisher, the company's support will help ensure IJB remains fully independent, while also playing a direct role in nurturing the next generation of Canadian journalists by providing them with the mentorship and skills needed to pursue impactful, meaningful stories. Article content 'We deeply appreciate Postmedia's commitment to the critical work of investigative journalism,' said Gerry Gotfrit, Co-Chairman of the IJB. 'Their support enhances our ability to tackle complex, meaningful issues, produce journalism that matters, and provide invaluable learning opportunities for journalism students and early-career professionals.' Article content Through this collaboration, IJB-produced stories will be featured across Postmedia's network of publications, expanding their reach to audiences nationwide. In addition, a rotating seat at the IJB will be established to provide emerging Postmedia journalists with hands-on training in investigative reporting. Together, Postmedia and the IJB will elevate compelling, in-depth journalism that engages Canadians, holds power to account, and strengthens the role of a free press as a pillar of democracy. Article content About Postmedia Network Inc. Postmedia Network Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Postmedia Network Canada Corp. (TSX:PNC.A, PNC.B), is a Canadian newsmedia company representing more than 130 brands across multiple print, online, and mobile platforms. Award-winning journalists and innovative product development teams bring engaging content to millions of people every week whenever and wherever they want it. This exceptional content, reach and scope offers advertisers and marketers compelling solutions to effectively reach target audiences. Our expertise in home delivery and expanding distribution network powers Postmedia Parcel Services. For more information, visit: and Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content
Business Wire
06-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Postmedia Announces Collaboration with Investigative Journalism Bureau to Strengthen Canadian Journalism
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Postmedia Network Inc. ('Postmedia') is proud to announce a collaborative relationship with the Investigative Journalism Bureau (IJB), reinforcing its commitment to exceptional journalism and the vital role investigative reporting plays in Canada's democracy. At a time when the media industry continues to face rapid change, this relationship demonstrates Postmedia's dedication to supporting journalism of the highest calibre, including a strong focus on investigative and long-form journalism. The IJB, based at the University of Toronto's Dalla Lana School of Public Health and led by award-winning investigative journalist Robert Cribb, has established itself as a centre of excellence, producing high-impact journalism that drives public awareness, policy changes, and social progress. IJB's work continues to earn national and international recognition for its quality and impact, with acclaimed works such as The Patient Files: Hidden Stories from Inside Ontario's Hospitals and Suspended garnering widespread praise and prestigious awards. "Our collaboration with the IJB aligns closely with our values as a trusted, independent media organization committed to fostering informed communities and a robust national dialogue," said Andrew MacLeod, President and CEO of Postmedia. "This relationship enables us to support outstanding investigative journalism, empower the next generation of reporters, and strengthen the integrity of Canada's media landscape." Through Postmedia's role as a primary publisher, the company's support will help ensure IJB remains fully independent, while also playing a direct role in nurturing the next generation of Canadian journalists by providing them with the mentorship and skills needed to pursue impactful, meaningful stories. "We deeply appreciate Postmedia's commitment to the critical work of investigative journalism," said Gerry Gotfrit, Co-Chairman of the IJB. "Their support enhances our ability to tackle complex, meaningful issues, produce journalism that matters, and provide invaluable learning opportunities for journalism students and early-career professionals." Through this collaboration, IJB-produced stories will be featured across Postmedia's network of publications, expanding their reach to audiences nationwide. In addition, a rotating seat at the IJB will be established to provide emerging Postmedia journalists with hands-on training in investigative reporting. Together, Postmedia and the IJB will elevate compelling, in-depth journalism that engages Canadians, holds power to account, and strengthens the role of a free press as a pillar of democracy. About Postmedia Network Inc. Postmedia Network Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Postmedia Network Canada Corp. (TSX:PNC.A, PNC.B), is a Canadian newsmedia company representing more than 130 brands across multiple print, online, and mobile platforms. Award-winning journalists and innovative product development teams bring engaging content to millions of people every week whenever and wherever they want it. This exceptional content, reach and scope offers advertisers and marketers compelling solutions to effectively reach target audiences. Our expertise in home delivery and expanding distribution network powers Postmedia Parcel Services. For more information, visit: and
