Fiji PM Awaits Media Talks Outcome
AUCKLAND (Radio Tarana/Pacific Media Watch): Fiji's Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama is looking forward to the outcome of the consultations on the
Media Industry Development Decree 2010.
Bainimarama says industry representatives would have come out of the consultation with an appreciation of how government
wants to engage in building a responsible media that will move the country forward.
>>> "I've mentioned numerous times before that government recognises the ability of the media to shape public
perception. What the government is asking for in coming out with the media decree is for the media to take greater
responsibility and ownership in shaping the new modern Fiji. To help lay a foundation that promotes equality and
fairness and a higher degree of ethics and moral principles."
Bainimarama also called on media outlets who are unhappy with the proposed decree to "change their mindset" in support
of the national interest.
>>> "My message is for them to reconsider their position and they need to understand the big picture and how
government wishes to engage with them in taking the nation forward. Government cannot and will not allow vested
interests to take over the national interest. The latter is paramount."
The Prime Minister called on the Fiji Times, whose ownership may have to change under the new decree, to look at how it can contribute to the country's
development.
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