Sun sets for Sun News Network as broadcast set to end Friday

Sun News Network is set to sign off permanently.

CBC News reported Thursday night that the Quebecor Mediaowned cable news television channel will shut down early Friday.

The network, which began broadcasting in 2011, launched a right-of-centre programming schedule, and earned the nickname “Fox News North.”

Sun News Network has had a constant challenge attracting viewers and had petitioned the CRTC for mandatory distribution on many cable providers.

Its supporters blamed the CRTC for not giving it the same access enjoyed by news channels operated by CBC and CTV.

In December, Canadian media pioneer Moses Znaimer, president of ZoomerMedia Ltd., reportedly expressed interest in making a deal to purchase Sun News Network.

Up to 150 employees and 50 freelancers are to be laid off.