Listening to Emmanuel Joseph on a program on the Peoples Business of the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation has so bravely articulating some of the adverse conditions reporters have to encounter when pursuing a story, it was somewhat irritating.
Mr. Joseph continued without fear of contradiction, given an example of what can be seen as a blatant attempt by a privilege few to muzzle reporters in this country, it is unbelievable to me in this day and age that Barbados has come to this.
Just imagine professionals that are well trained to be allowed to serve the public under the banner of "free speech", are subject to "hand off" situations to protect a special interest group in our society.
However, Mr. Joseph also made mention of an incident when a police officer was hindered by being required to sign a book to enter one of the controversial gated communities, this humiliation must have impacted heavily on our officers, reporters, and skillful citizens that are providing two separate services that are important in any civilized society; There were treated like boy scouts.
Having said that, it is understood that the police and news media have some things in common, example: serving the public.
Therefore it is only logical for them to embrace each other like they recently have and are now busy working together to mend fences with a view to impact there relationship, which is a positive one.
The public which is demanding investigative journalism and also expecting a reduction in crime, must now accept its responsibility and rally around our police officers and reporters in concrete solidarity.
The above accusation must be taken seriously and the public will always be entitled to an explanation from the authorities.
Neville Roach
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