The Tribune

RE: Compulsory Media Coverage

EDITOR, The Tribune.

I am unfamiliar with the laws in other jurisdictions around the world regarding the function of the media, with particular reference to The United States of America. It seems to me that the American media regard an important address by their President to be so compelling, coupled with their (seeming) obligation to their citizens to provide them with information that would significantly affect their lives, that it would provide ubiquitous media coverage, including  news related TV channels, newspapers and magazines and sometimes predominantly electronic and print entertainment venues.

I find that (somewhat) commendable; especially since (I believe) these persons are not mandated by law to provide this Presidential media coverage.

In The Bahamas, the print and electronic media have done an exceptional job in this same regard for many years. 

However, since the proliferation of the private radio stations, as well as the introduction of cable television, the attention of the Bahamian people has been inadvertently adulterated; and to our detriment.

I would like to suggest to the government that legislation be brought to Parliament that is crafted in such a way so as to have the effect of mandating that as a condition of securing a “media” licence to operate in this country, one must agree to adhere to certain stipulations; namely: When the Cabinet of The Bahamas issues (limited) edicts to the media to conscript their appearance at a place where the Prime Minister of The Bahamas will make an address, the subject of which will have country-wide repercussions, these media houses would be required to send the appropriate personnel to cover the story for a limited time period only. 

But, in order not to give the appearance that the Bahamian government is attempting to exercise control over the minds of Bahamians ostensibly to provide them with information, I would suggest that the media can choose not to “run” the story. They must send personnel, but choose not to “run” it.

Would you allow me to further suggest that the following be provided for (within the legislation) as an “out” to this proposed law – If the media chooses not to “run” the story then:

(1) The radio must go silent for the time allotted for the address.

(2) The television must go blank without any sound for the time allotted for the address, including cable channels.

(3) Newspapers must insert a full blank page within the main section of their periodicals. Magazines likewise.

These suggestions are not cast in concrete. They may be manipulated.  However, the premise does not change – compulsory media coverage for the Prime Minister of The Bahamas by the media on matters of  (extreme) National Security.

MARVIN G LIGHTBOURN

Nassau,

January 12, 2015.