Philly newspaper union may fight latest job cuts

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The union representing journalists at Philadelphia’s two largest newspapers may challenge the latest round of newsroom layoffs.

Philadelphia Media Network plans to cut 45 positions at The Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Daily News and Philly.com this month.

The cuts come as hedge-fund owners seek to sell the company after 18 months.

Twenty-one unionized staffers are taking buyouts, and 19 more will be laid off. The company is also cutting five nonunion employees.

Bill Ross, executive director of the local Newspaper Guild, wants more information on company finances to see if the cuts are necessary.

He says the union may otherwise challenge the 19 layoffs.

Company officials have cited both finances and the consolidation of newsroom functions as reasons for the cuts. Some staff work now appears in both newspapers.