State Invite On Media Decree

State Invite On Media Decree

www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=143388

SUVA (The Fiji Times/Pacific Media Watch): Fiji Times and Fiji Television can put in expressions of interest if they wish to take part in consultations on a proposed Media Industry Development Decree 2010.

Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, who holds the justice portfolio, made the comment in a press conference yesterday, adding the new stance was "not a sudden change".

Sayed-Khaiyum said the decision was made "because we do want to be consulting everybody about it, and everybody can have their input".

Fiji Times' managing director Anne Fussell said the newspaper was open to any meaningful discussion.

"The Fiji Times has always been open to any meaningful discussion on such an important issue as the future of the media in Fiji as it affects the ability of everyone in Fiji to access information vital to them in making decisions about issues that directly affect their lives. We would welcome copies of the proposed decree as soon as possible so that, like all other interested parties, we can devote plenty of time to study it and offer a considered, constructive and forward looking response."

Fiji Television's chief executive Tarun Patel said he was currently abroad and would make comments once he saw documents on the draft decree.

Consultations on the draft Media Industry Development Decree 2010 have been announced for the end of next week.

Anyone interested in participating was expected to register by April 6, because unregistered people would not be allowed to participate.

The consultation will be held at the Holiday Inn in Suva next Wednesday April 7, Ministry of Youth Conference Room at Ro Qomate House in Labasa on April 8 and the Sugar Cane Growers Conference Room at the Sugar Cane Growers Council Building in Lautoka on April 10.

ENDS

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