Caribbean360: Grenada moves closer to media policy

Grenada moves closer to media policy
================================================================================
Tom Hoyos on 21/01/2011 15:28:00
 
ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, Friday, January 21, 2011 - Grenada is one step closer
to the establishment of a national media policy, with the completion of work on
a draft policy, which is now being reviewed by the Ministry of Legal Affairs.
Prime Minister Tillman Thomas said he anticipates the document will be taken to
Parliament by the second quarter of the year, following a final round of public
consultations.
He told Parliament yesterday that “significant progress” was made in the
past year to complete the policy that he said would address a growing demand
among Grenadians for a more professional media.
Thomas praised a committee of media professionals for their work on the policy,
which is aimed at promoting the growth of expression in Grenada, through
programming that reflects the rich cultural diversity, traditions and values of
the country.
“Our administration is encouraged that this policy will also provide a
reasonable opportunity for the public to be exposed to the expression of
differing views on matters of public concern. This is part of the strengthening
of our democracy,” the Prime Minister said, noting that the policy must be a
reflection of media practitioners.
The policy will ensure that the media cater for a broad range of services,
specifically for the programming needs of children, women, youth, the disabled
and the socially disadvantaged. It will also ensure the media provide a balance
of information, enlightenment and entertainment. The policy will also cater for
the establishment of a Standards Committee, a Complaints Committee and an
Appeals Tribunal.
The Prime Minister said his administration also remains committed to a Freedom
of Information Act, with work set to be accelerated once the media policy is
completed.
“We need to strengthen and support the media as an institution. The media must
be able to do its work without fear of political interference,” he said.
Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View
sample)