Committee on Journalists’ Grievances begins work

Rasika SOMARATHNA

COLOMBO: The high powered Ministerial Committee on Journalists’ Grievances, started its work at the BMICH yesterday, with the promise of better interaction to resolve problems faced by Journalists in view of ensuring their freedom and protection.

Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama addressing the media during the inauguration, said the effort to bridge the gap between journalists’ and authorities was done in good faith with a lot of expectation.

In addition to Dr. Amunugama the Cabinet Sub-Committee includes Mass Media and Information Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Construction and Engineering Services Minister Rajitha Senaratna, Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardene, Transport Minister Dullas Alahapperuma, Nation Building and Estate Infrastructure Development Minister Rohitha Abeygunewardene and Deputy Tourism Minister Faizer Mustapha.

A 24-hour operational centre was opened at the BMICH which includes all relevant personnel including law enforcement authorities to look into complaints on grievances.

Journalists’ could submit their problems and complaints to the Committee via mail, telephone, fax, e-mail or by dropping into the office at the BMICH.

They also could approach any member of the Committee directly regarding their grievances.

While hailing the latest initiative as ample testimony to Government’s commitment in ensuring the independence of media personnel and institutions, Mass Media and Information Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa urged the journalists to look at the Committee as a friend in their hour of need.

Transport Minister Dullas Alahapperuma said this was the first time that a government had come up with such a mechanism to address journalists’ grievances.

He said that as a maiden attempt there might be lapses initially which was humane, but with experience the process would achieve greater stability. “Our intention is to tackle problems head on in a very transparent manner and not to seek umbrage behind petty excuses” the Minister said.

Minister Rajitha Senaratna addressing the media said journalists should concentrate giving factual details instead of engaging in sensationalistic reporting, specially in defence related matters.

He added that the country was waging a struggle with the number one terrorist outfit in the world and as such Defence matters should be properly verified before being aired.

The Committee is to work with the following objectives being in line as top priority, which are to help in ensuring the independence of media personnel and institutions.

To inquire into complaints of harassment and death threats to media personnel and intervene if such allegations are correct.

To bring better understanding between state officials and the media and to provide social recognition to media which depends national sovereignty and security.

To follow up on projects proposed to promote the welfare of media personnel and ensure speedy implementation.

To assist in safeguarding right to incorporation of all citizens and create a responsible and socially recognised media culture.

Ministers Laxman Yapa Abeywardana and Deputy Minister Faizer Musthapa too addressed the gathering.

The Ministerial Committee on journalists Grievances has been mooted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa.