Trinidad & Tobago Media
What are your thoughts about the proposed bill that will fine the media up to $250,000 and up to five years in prison if more information than allowed on cases should be disseminated to the public by them?
I agree that the media can go way overboard with what they print and say but I hope this doesn't lead to a silencing of the media on the news because a lot of things come to light when the media is involved compared to when they're not.
Name: George
Comments: I really do not believe that the hierarchy of any newspaper on this island has the interest of the citizens at heart. If they had, because of the power they have, they would have already forced changes for the better especially in the manner in which this nation is governed since our independence. As to what they choose to publish, and the manner in which they report, and their follow up to political issues, crime, and other important stories. I have my doubts as to whether their aim is more of making a profit than being influential in bringing about real change to our society. They must keep hammering at the police and politicians in cases like the Dana Seetahal murder and the big cocaine bust, in order that the people of status involved in these crimes be named and are brought to light quickly. If the media keeps sitting on the fence it will only allow those in authority to do as they see fit without regards to the opinion of our citizens.
Shows like Beyond the Tape and Crime Watch is part of the media. They sensationalize the situation in Trinidad by making it entertainment. There needs to be a more hardline approach to this problem and they can start with clearing up the blockage of cases in the courts.
How is the local media handling the recent statement by a comedian, John Oliver who mashing up the country: