Two days ago, retired journalist and TV newsman Harvey Oberfeld headlined, “Bell Media President Brings Shame to CTV.”

Today, the company reacted to disclosures Bell Media President Kevin Crull interfered with news coverage that affected Bell’s business interests.

BCE announces departure of Kevin Crull from Bell Media:

BCE Inc. today announced that Kevin Crull will depart from the position of President of Bell Media effective today.

“Kevin Crull departs Bell with our thanks for his contributions to our customers and shareholders,” said George Cope, President and CEO of Bell Canada and BCE Inc…

“However, the independence of Bell Media’s news operations is of paramount importance to our company and to all Canadians. There can be no doubt that Bell will always uphold the journalistic standards that have made CTV the most trusted brand in Canadian news,” said Mr. Cope…”

While Crull’s removal is a correct response, it is insufficient. Oberfeld asked the important question,

Why did ALMOST ALL of its SENIOR news staff just go along with the directive…?

It may be that President Wendy Freeman and senior colleagues at CTV News fought in the boardroom against Crull’s intrusion. If they did, the actions should be revealed because, if they did not, they also deserve removal.

Bell Canada took a step in the right direction. More steps are needed. Without them, there are cracks in Bell Media’s credibility.