CTV News has terminated the employment of two staff members following an investigation into an altered video clip of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre that aired in a recent national news report. The network announced this decision in a statement posted on social media, citing a breach of editorial policies and practices.

The controversy arose from a news segment that first aired on Sunday, which included a manipulated clip of Poilievre during a media scrum. According to the Conservative Party, the edited clip gave the misleading impression that Poilievre was proposing a non-confidence motion to eliminate the Liberal government’s dental care program.

In the original footage, Poilievre stated, “That’s why it’s time to put forward a motion for a carbon tax election.” However, the broadcasted version only included the phrase, “That’s why we need to put forward a motion,” immediately following a reporter’s comments about the dental care program’s uncertain future.

Poilievre has strongly criticized the report, calling it “extremely dishonest” and “fraudulent.” He also directed accusations at Bell, CTV’s parent company, suggesting without evidence that the news team was acting on behalf of CEO Mirko Bibic.

CTV’s statement did not directly address Poilievre’s criticisms but offered an unreserved apology for the report and the false impression it created. The network emphasized its commitment to providing accurate, fair, and independent coverage.

The identities of the dismissed staff members or provided further details about the investigation process were not disclosed.

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