With the beginning of 2021 internet portal Delfi has terminated cooperation with journalist Jānis Domburs, ending production of his programme Delfi TV ar Jāni Domburu, as confirmed by Delfi acting editor in chief Filips Lastovskis.
As Domburs wrote on Twitter, Delfi TV ar Jāni Domburu did not provide a sufficient number of Delfi Plus subscribers. This is why the programme is not among the portal’s priorities. «This is the media market we have in Latvia. I would like to thank all viewers and readers for their attention!» he added.
Lastovskis explained that cooperation with Domburs was ceased because journalism of the highest grade requires considerable investments. However, Delfi, similarly to other media, is currently in a difficult situation. This is why the decision has been made to cease production of articles and videos in Delfi portal’s section Delfi TV ar Jāni Domburu.
The articles and videos produced so far will remain accessible.
At the same time, the portal’s representative stressed that Delfi is eligible for state funding for the production of content. This is one option to secure funding for the restoration of the aforementioned programme.
Lastovskis also noted the decision regarding cessation of cooperation was a difficult one, considering Domburs’ contribution towards the portal’s development and reputation. Restoration of this cooperation, he said, will be a priority for Delfi in the future.
Delfi will continue producing video content, as confirmed by Lastovskis. He did not reveal more details on this, however.
Delfi TV ar Jāni Domburu project commenced in autumn 2017. This programme featured interviews hosted by Domburs, discussions and verbal «duels». During this cooperation Domburs and Delfi also produced a cycle of programmes called Bag Open Wide, reflecting the information detailed in so-called KGB documents.
According to information from Firmas.lv, AS Delfi worked with turnover of EUR 3.809 million in 2019, which is 4% larger when compared to a year prior. The company’s losses were EUR 80 401 in 2019, which is several times less when compared to EUR 444 006 in 2018.