Freedom of information legislation to be introduced in Grenada
|
| Published on Tuesday, December 30, 2008 |
Email To Friend Print Version |
By Oscar Ramjeet
Caribbean Net News Special Correspondent
Email: oscar@caribbeannetnews.com
ST GEORGE’S, Grenada: Grenada’s Prime Minister, Tillman Thomas, has announced a few important steps he intends to take, including the introduction of a Freedom of Information Act, the implementation of integrity legislation, the appointment of an ombudsman and a national media policy to ensure that the rule of law is adhered to in the Spice Isle.
 |
|
Grenada's Prime
Minister, Tillman Thomas
|
Thomas made the announcement as he addressed the Media Workers Association of Grenada (MWAG) at the weekend.
He said, "As part of our legislative agenda, we are putting in place the necessary structures and resources to deepen the democratic governance process.
"We are moving to implement the Integrity legislation passed in Parliament close to one year ago and to appoint the Ombudsman to look into complaints from the public. Additionally, we plan to introduce The Freedom of Information Act shortly. This Act will hopefully enhance your access to government information and ultimately your work."
Thomas told the media workers, "I have for many years placed great emphasis on respect for and the protection of our institutions. The media is one such institution, and your role is critical in maintenance of our democratic system.”
"It is my view that the media has made considerable strides in Grenada during the last decade. Grenadians now have a greater choice in accessing information and entertainment. To some extent, there is some level of freedom of expression if one gauges the various talk shows that abound. While this can be regarded as some progress, you know only too well, of the many threats and legal actions that you have been subjected to in the past few years," Thomas added.
In his presentation, Thomas said that he has listened to some local artistes and media personalities, and added, "Based on their programming, diction, style and intonation, I sometimes wonder about whether they are of Grenadian descent and whether they fully appreciate their roles and in its impact. I am concerned for example, about the influence on our young people and the extent to which they are well grounded in good old Grenadian values."
He then disclosed that there is need for policy intervention and concerned action at this time in the country’s history for a national media policy and a code of ethics to guide and inform media practice in Grenada. This, he stressed, needs to be revisited promptly. There is also a need to accelerate training for all media personnel, the prime minister added. | | | | Reads : 1102 | | | |
|
|
