More on the cuts in local TV

UPDATED Friday, 3:25 pm: Channel 12 Statement.

WPRI GM Jay Howell just sent this:

“While we don’t normally comment on personnel issues, I will say that WPRI 12 and FOX Providence are adjusting to the needs of our environment and re-engineering the way we do business. Unfortunately, that means some employees have been released. Our stations’ ongoing investments in operational efficiency as well as our commitment to serving viewers and advertisers with optimal products and services are effectively positioning us as a more diversified, multi-media news organization.”

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The ProJo's Randal Edgar reports today on some news broken here two days ago, adding that WLNE has also been impacted:

At WLNE-TV (Channel 6), two full-time reporting positions have been filled by freelancers, and one engineering person was recently laid off, leaving two engineering positions unfilled, said Stephen Doerr, the station’s vice president and general manager.

Meanwhile, Channel 10 GM Lisa Churchville sent along the following statement:

As a result of the current business recession, NBC-10 has been deeply affected by significantly lower spending by the company’s advertisers, and by other economic challenges facing the media industry and the majority of other businesses.   Media General, NBC-10’s parent company, continues to review processes and staffing levels throughout the company to identify opportunities to operate with greater efficiency and effectiveness.  The company has made the difficult decision to reduce staffing levels at NBC-10 effective 12/09/2008.  Approximately 4 employees have been affected.  Full-time employees have been offered severance packages.  Parting with valued employees is very difficult; and all the more difficult in light of the strong contributions these employees have made to the company during their tenure.