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Impact on Local Communities and Employment

Published July 8, 2026 at 6:50 PM UTC

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The recent closure of six radio stations by Rogers Sports & Media has significant implications for local communities and the employees affected. The stations shutting down include Vancouver's Sportsnet 650, Calgary's Sportsnet 960, 1130 NewsRadio in Vancouver, 660 NewsRadio in Calgary, 95.7 NewsRadio in Halifax, and 570 NewsRadio in Kitchener. Approximately 80 employees are directly impacted by these closures. The decision to close these stations was driven by declining audience numbers and reduced advertising revenue, as stated by Rogers spokesperson Zac Carreiro. This move reflects broader challenges within the media industry, where traditional radio faces competition from digital platforms and changing consumer habits. The loss of these stations means that communities in Vancouver, Calgary, Halifax, and Kitchener will have fewer local news and sports broadcasting options. For instance, Vancouver's Sportsnet 650 was the city's last remaining sports radio station, and its closure leaves a gap in local sports coverage. The company has indicated that it will continue to operate 44 radio stations in nearly 30 communities across Canada and invest in local news in the affected markets. However, the immediate impact on the affected employees and the communities that relied on these stations for news and sports coverage is significant.