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CMC’s Problems must be Handled with Extreme Caution

Contact: Janelle Charles

Wednesday, January 09, 2002 - St. Lucia’s Minister for Information and Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Kenny Anthony says there is a need to proceed with extreme caution in finding solutions to the problems of the Caribbean Media Corporation. Last Friday saw the temporary closure of the Barbados-based regional news agency as a result of a serious cash flow problem.

Media reports indicate that CMC is seeking to obtain a ‘rescue aid’ package from regional governments, but Dr. Anthony observes that in the past governments have been criticised for lending support to the media. “Why, therefore, in this particular circumstance, governments - in these very critical times - are asked to extend financial support to a news agency?” Dr. Anthony asked.

The Information Minister on Wednesday also expressed concern over the implications the involvement of regional governments in the affairs of CMC may have on the integrity and the independence of the institution.

“I have a more fundamental concern whether governments of the region should be putting any resources into an organisation that is led substantially by journalists, and whether it might not compromise their integrity and independence. You see we can’t have it both ways. It’s about time we get our principles straight in the region,” Dr. Anthony observed.

related

Low Level of Support for Regional Initiatives May Lie Behind CMC's Closure

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