CanWest MediaWorks announced its entry into local directory publishing yesterday with the introduction of print and online directories for advertisers in Ottawa, Regina and Saskatoon. The directories will give consumers biz listings, glossy maps, a government section, community info (schools, recreation and parks), a restaurant guide and large ads. The online component will add driving directions and search capabilities to the mapping info.

The Ottawa directory will launch later this summer, hitting 30,000 businesses locally with a potential reach of 370,000 households. The Regina and Saskatoon directories will launch in early 2008. The Regina book will hit 8,000 local businesses with a potential reach of 78,000 households. The Saskatoon directory will hit 9,000 local businesses with a potential reach of 117,000 households.

CanWest will promote the directories through its daily newspapers, online properties (including Canada.com) and local broadcast stations.