Editorial Policies

Code of Ethics

WestNet News adheres to the highest standards of journalistic ethics as outlined by the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) Ethics Guidelines. These standards require adherence to the recognized processes and principles of the journalism profession, including fairness, independence, and rigour in reporting news and handling sources. Our ethical framework is consistent with the principles recognized by the Canadian Journalism Collective (CJC) and reflects the obligations expected of a professional Canadian news outlet.

WestNet News participates in the National NewsMedia Council (NNC) complaints process, providing readers with an independent body to review concerns about fairness and accuracy in our journalism.

Accuracy & Fairness

We are committed to factual, accurate reporting. We verify information through multiple sources before publication. When errors occur, we correct them promptly and transparently. All persons and organizations mentioned in our reporting are given a fair opportunity to respond to allegations or criticism.

Independence

Our editorial decisions are made independently of ownership, advertisers, and external interests. WestNet News reporters and editors do not accept gifts, favours, or compensation from sources or subjects of coverage that could compromise — or appear to compromise — our editorial independence.

Conflict of Interest

Staff and contributors must disclose any potential conflicts of interest to the editor-in-chief. We do not report on organizations, businesses, or individuals with whom we have a personal or financial relationship without full disclosure and editorial oversight.

Source Protection

We protect the identity of confidential sources. We use anonymous sources only when the information is of significant public interest and cannot be obtained through other means. The editor-in-chief must approve the use of anonymous sources.

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve. This includes seeking out underrepresented voices, covering stories that affect marginalized communities, and ensuring our newsroom reflects the demographics of Calgary and Alberta.

Indigenous Coverage

We approach coverage of Indigenous communities with respect, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to reconciliation. We strive to include Indigenous perspectives and voices in our reporting, particularly on stories that affect First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. We are guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action, including those related to media.

Separation of News and Opinion

We maintain a clear separation between news reporting and opinion content. News articles are grounded in facts and balanced reporting. Opinion pieces and editorials are clearly labelled and represent the views of their authors, not the newsroom.

Corrections Policy

WestNet News is committed to accuracy. When we make errors, we correct them promptly and transparently.

Types of Changes

• Corrections: Factual errors are corrected in the text and a correction notice is appended to the article noting what was changed and when.
• Clarifications: When published information is technically accurate but misleading, we add clarifying information with a note.
• Updates: Developing stories are updated as new information becomes available. Material updates are noted with a timestamp.

How to Request a Correction

If you believe we have published inaccurate information, please contact our newsroom at news@wnactionnews.com with the subject line "Correction Request." Please include:

• The article title or URL
• The specific error
• The correct information and supporting documentation

We review all correction requests promptly and respond within two business days.

Ownership & Funding Transparency

WestNet News is a publication of WestNet-HD, A Division of WN Continental Broadcasting. We are a Canadian-owned and operated media organization based in Calgary, Alberta.

Ownership Structure

WN Continental Broadcasting is a privately held Canadian company. WestNet News operates as a division of WestNet-HD, which also operates WestNet Wireless (internet service provider) and WestNet Humanitarian Services (community emergency services).

Revenue Sources

Our journalism is primarily funded through digital advertising (Google AdSense) and cross-promotion of WestNet's services. WestNet News is free to access — we do not operate a paywall. We believe local journalism should be accessible to all members of the community.

Editorial Independence

WestNet News is operated exclusively for the purpose of producing original news content. While owned by WN Continental Broadcasting, our editorial decisions are made independently by our newsroom. Ownership does not influence story selection, editorial direction, or journalistic standards. Our entire operational mandate — staff, budget, and resources — is dedicated to newsgathering, reporting, and publishing journalism in the public interest. When we cover topics related to our parent company or its services, we disclose the relationship.

Complaints & Feedback

We welcome feedback from our readers. If you have concerns about our coverage, editorial decisions, or journalistic practices, please contact us:

• Email: news@wnactionnews.com
• Subject line: "Editorial Feedback" or "Complaint"

All complaints are reviewed by the editor-in-chief. We aim to respond to all formal complaints within five business days.

WestNet News participates in the National NewsMedia Council (NNC) complaints process. The NNC is an independent, voluntary self-regulatory body that serves as a forum for complaints about media fairness and accuracy. Readers who are unsatisfied with our internal response may file a complaint with the NNC.