2014 Editorial Voluntary Staff Reduction Program To: From: Date: Editorial Staff Linda Ruhl February 4, 2014

The Ottawa Citizen is offering Editorial employees the opportunityto apply for a voluntary staff reduction program. While employees may indicate their interest to participate in the program, acceptance to the program is at the discretion of management. Employees who are approved for the program cannot, for a period of two years from their separation date, work for the Company in any capacity, including as an employee, independent contractor or consultant. This does not preclude the submission of occasional freelance pieces but is intended to prevent the employee from replacing even a substantial minority of employment income with freelance payments. The package will consist of the following: 3 weeks per year of service to a maximum of 78 weeks with an overcall cap of $150,000 The buyout package will be paid in weekly installments as a salary continuance, commencing on the first pay day after the employee's departure date. Payments will continue to be subject to usual statutory deductions Employees will receive basic life, supplementary medical and dental coverage, if currently held, for the term of their salary continuance. No optional coverage will be provided, but may be converted to a personal policy at the employee's own expense. Those employees over age 55 as at the end of their salary continuance, upon retirement will become eligible for retiree benefits Early retirement is available to those employees who will be at least 55 years old as at the end of their salary continuance Up to $300 will be provided to pay for personal financial counseling related to the buyout employees must be off staff by February 28, 2014 or by such other date to be determined by the company Interested employees should make inquiries directlyto human resources. All employees accepted will be required to sign a release agreement a copy of which can be obtained in Human Resources. Applications for this program must be submitted in writing to Human Resources by February 18, 2014. You will be advised by your manager by February 21, 2014 whether your application has been accepted. Acceptance is strictlyat management's discretion. If you have applied and been turned down in the past, it is necessary to reapply to ensure The Citizen is aware of your continuing interest. Written confirmation of your interest will be required for serious consideration. Please be advised that once an employee has confirmed interest, the department management will be engaged in a discussion as to the feasibility of the application.
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