By Alicia Chamely
THE Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) is calling upon the management of the Newsday to be transparent, direct and respectful with its employees, giving them first preference to all information involved in the closure of the newspaper.
In a press release on Thursday, MATT stated, “The Executive was disturbed to learn that the majority of employees were not consulted before the winding up of the company and only heard the news last Friday—just minutes before the last hard-copy edition was about to go to press.”
The lack of communication, stated MATT, had left employees working on a digital publication unsure as to whether they would be paid for January.
MATT called on management to not only clear this matter up, but to ensure proper compensation and severance benefits were given to all employees including temporary employees and freelancers.
The release stated, “The Executive notes that employees have served Newsday with distinction and dedication over its 32 years in operation, even amid an ever-changing media landscape. MATT urges that all affected employees be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”
MATT stated the loss of any journalistic institution in T&T was a loss for historical record and memory.
It expressed concern over the fate of the Newsday’s digital archives.
MATT stated, “Another concern is whether Newsday’s digital archives will be preserved, unlike what occurred with the recent closure of Loop. The loss of such records can hinder the displaced journalists’ ability to secure future employment.”
The Association extended its solidarity and empathy to the staff of the Newsday, who they stated, “had served Newsday with distinction and dedication over its 32 years in operation, even amid an ever-changing media landscape.”
On January 9, 2026, the Newsday announced its closure, marking the end of a significant chapter in Trinidad and Tobago’s journalistic landscape. The first hearing of the winding up proceedings comes up in the High Court on Monday.
Newsday was established in 1993 and was the only daily newspaper in operation that was not owned by a larger commercial conglomerate.
