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PRESS RELEASES
Press Release No: 29/2003 THE MALTA PRESS CLUB ACCEPTED INTO The Malta Press Club (TMPC) has been accepted as an associate member of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), which represents over 500,000 journalists in more than 100 countries. The decision to admit TMPC to the world's largest organisation of journalists was made during the meeting of the IFJ Executive Committee in Delhi, India, on 29 and 30 November 2003. TMPC Education and Information Secretary Charlot Zahra submitted the application for membership of the IFJ at the Federation's headquarters in Brussels on 9 October 2003. Membership of the IFJ will bring various benefits to TMPC members, including the issuing of the international press card, a professional accreditation known and respected all over the world. Moreover, in virtue of its membership in the IFJ, TMPC will also be admitted to the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), the regional branch of the IFJ for Europe. "This is another milestone in Maltese journalism and in the history of The Malta Press Club. The sterling work that has been done by The Malta Press Club for the past 14 years has now been also recognised internationally with admission to the IFJ", TMPC Chairman Malcolm J Naudi said. "This will also enable The Malta Press Club to offer more services to member journalists in Malta. Moreover, through admission to the EFJ, Maltese journalists will be acquiring a strong voice in Europe as well at this particular time for Malta", he added.
Press Release No.: 28/2003
The Press Ethics Commission - Malta (PEC) today held the first ever press conference since the ethics body of The Malta Press Club (TMPC) was launched in 1991. During this press conference, the chairman of the PEC, Chief Justice Emeritus Professor Giuseppe Mifsud Bonnici, explained how the Commission receives complaints and deals with them within the provisions of TMPC's Code of Ethics. The PEC chairman also explained how the Rules of Procedure, which were launched during today's press conference, define how the Commission operates and the different steps adopted by the PEC during its handling of a complaint. To make matters easier for those who are not acquainted with legal jargon, the PEC today also published a series of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how the Commission operates. Each question is answered in a simple, concise way. The PEC today launched its website, which includes information on the Commission, the Code of Journalistic Ethics, the Rules of Procedure and the Frequently Asked Questions. A version in Maltese of these documents should be published next year. There is also a list of the PEC members and the postal address as well as the e-mail address of the Commission. The PEC website is available at www.maltapressclub.org.mt/pec.html. In this context, the PEC wishes to thank Commission Secretary Bjørn-Ole Austad, TMPC Education and Information Secretary Charlot Zahra, and TMPC web-master Martin Debattista for their sterling work to get the website running on schedule. The PEC would also like to thank maltaNET Internet Service Provider for hosting the Commission's website and providing its e-mail address. Commenting on these developments, TMPC Chairman Malcolm J. Naudi said: "The PEC is a simple, accessible, efficient and cost-effective manner to deal with complaints relating to the behaviour of journalists. Thus people who feel that journalists are not acting correctly should not take the law into their hands but instead submit their complaint to the PEC." Those who wish to contact the PEC may do so at the following address: The Secretary The Press Ethics Commission can also be contacted
via e-mail at pec@maltapressclub.org.mt.
A SHORT HISTORICAL OVERVIEW OF THE PEC Since its foundation, The Malta Press Club (TMPC) has endeavoured to upgrade journalism in Malta. Ethics, together with Education and Professionalisation, were identified as the three principles TMPC should pursue to achieve this objective. In November 1991, following various meeting between The Malta Press Club and the now defunct Institute of Broadcasters, a code of journalistic ethics was launched, following approval by the members of both organisations. That Code, launched during a press conference on 11 November 1991, provided for the setting up of the Journalistic Ethics Council, which was to be the precursor of the present Press Ethics Commission (PEC). In February 1996, a policy document prepared by former TMPC Education and Information Secretary, Carmel Bonello, was presented during a seminar for all Maltese journalists. Among others, this document put forward new concepts for the promotion of journalistic ethics, including guidelines for submission and handling of complaints, as well as for a revision of the former Journalistic Ethics Council. The document suggested the setting up of a body called the Press Ethics Commission (PEC) and its composition. The new PEC became operational in January 1999 under the chairmanship of Notary Myriam Spiteri Debono. In 2001, the Chief Justice Emeritus, Professor Giuseppe Mifsud Bonnici, was appointed Chairman. The Press Ethics Commission is currently composed of: Chairman: Chief Justice Emeritus Prof. Dr Giuseppe Mifsud Bonnici Members: Mr Lino Bugeja Secretary: Bjørn-Ole Austad
Stqarrija numru 27/2003
Il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club (TMPC) jifrah lill-pulizija ghall-azzjoni immedjata li hadu meta ressqu l-Qorti f'qasir zmien liz-zewg persuni li hebbu ghal tliet membri ta' l-istampa waqt il-qadi ta' dmirijiethom dalghodu. Madankollu l-Kunsill ta' TMPC mhuwiex konvint li s-sentenza ta' sena probation li l-akkuzati inghataw mill-Qorti wara li ammettew l-akkuzi migjuba kontrihom hija ta' deterrent ghal dawk li jahsbu li l-gurnalist jista' jigi attakkat waqt il-qadi ta' dmirijietu. "Jiddispjacina ninnutaw li l-appell li ghamilna sabiex il-Qrati f'dan il-kaz jaghtu sentenza li twassal messagg car lis-socjeta' li l-gurnalist m'ghandux jintmess waqa' fuq widnejn torox", sostna l-Kunsill ta' TMPC. Il-Kunsill ta' TMPC innota b'dispjacir li l-episodji ta' vjolenza fizika fil-konfront tal-gurnalisti ma naqsux tul dawn l-ahhar snin, specjalment f'kazi ta' incidenti tat-traffiku, mwiet u ferimenti, kif ukoll fil-Qrati. "Ghaldaqstant nergghu inheggu lill-Korp tal-Pulizija sabiex iwettaq il-weghda tieghu lil The Malta Press Club li fejn ikun hemm incidenti serji, sew tat-traffiku kif ukoll ta' kronaka, ikun hemm ufficjali tal-pulizija mis-CMRU li jiggwidaw lill-gurnalisti u l-fotografi fix-xena ta' l-incident u fl-istess waqt iservu ta' protezzjoni ghalihom", temm jghid il-Kunsill ta' TMPC.
Stqarrija numru 26/2003
Il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club (TMPC) jikkundanna bl-akbar qawwa l-aggressjoni fizika fuq tliet membri tieghu waqt il-qadi ta' dmirijiethom dalghodu. It-tliet membri huma Michael Ellul, fotografu ta' Media.link, Marco Micallef, cameraman ta' Super One Television, u Brandon Pisani, gurnalista ta' l-Union Press. Jirrizulta li waqt li Ellul, Micallef u Pisani kienu qeghdin jirrapportaw dwar incident serju tat-traffiku li kien ghadu kif sehh fit-Triq ta' St Andrew's, huwa sfaw imsawta minn zewg qraba ta' wiehed mill-persuni midruba fl-incident. Huma kellhom jittiehdu c-Centru tas-Sahha tal-Gzira ghall-kura, fejn Micallef kien certifikat li kien qed isofri minn griehi f'rasu, ghonqu u dahru, Pisani kien certifikat li kien qed isofri minn griehi hfief f'idejh u f'ghonqu, filwaqt li Ellul helisha minghajr griehi ghalkemm safa' msawwat ukoll. Il-Kunsill ta' TMPC: 1) jesprimi solidarjeta' shiha mal-gurnalisti li sfaw midruba waqt il-qadi ta' dmirijiethom, u 2) iheggeg lill-Pulizija u lill-Qrati sabiex jiehdu passi horox kontra min jaghmel atti kodardi bhal dawn. "Id-dritt ghall-informazzjoni huwa wiehed mid-drittijiet ewlenin f'socjeta' demokratika bhal Malta. Ir-rwol tal-gurnalist li jaghti l-informazzjoni lill-fehma pubblika f'socjeta' demokratika, liema rwol huwa rikonoxxut anki f'sentenzi tal-Qrati Maltin, m'ghandux jkun imxekkel bl-ebda mod, specjalment bil-vjolenza", sostna l-Kunsill ta' TMPC. Il-Kunsill ta' TMPC stqarr: "B'dispjacir ninnutaw li l-episodji ta' vjolenza fizika fil-konfront tal-gurnalisti ma naqsux tul dawn l-ahhar snin, specjalment f'kazi ta' incidenti tat-traffiku, mwiet u ferimenti, kif ukoll fil-Qrati". "Ghaldaqstant inheggu lill-Korp tal-Pulizija sabiex iwettaq il-weghda tieghu lil The Malta Press Club li fejn ikun hemm incidenti serji, sew tat-traffiku kif ukoll ta' kronaka, ikun hemm ufficjali tal-pulizija mis-CMRU li jiggwidaw lill-gurnalisti u l-fotografi fix-xena ta' l-incident u fl-istess waqt iservu ta' protezzjoni ghalihom", sostna l-Kunsill ta' TMPC. Il-Kunsill appella wkoll biex meta l-kaz jitressaq il-Qorti, tinghata sentenza li twassal messagg car lis-socjeta' li l-gurnalist m'ghandux jintmess.
LECTURES ON ARAB MEDIA
Between 17-18 November, Mr Mohamed Sid-Ahmed,
a distinguished journalist with the Egyptian newspaper Al-Ahram,
will be lecturing at the University of Malta on the media and
the Arab world. Aim of University Lectures The two lectures to be held at the University of Malta are aimed at a Maltese public interested in following reportage, commentary and public discussion in the Arab world. The lectures are especially aimed at Maltese journalists who might want to follow a news story not just in the Western but also in the Arab media. Intended Audience of University Lectures " University students - especially those
following a BA in Communication, Arabic, International Relations,
Contemporary Mediterranean Studies, and Anthropology . I Monday 17 November. GW Hall D2. 4-5pm. Arab Newspapers and TV News a) Which are the major Arab newspapers? What is their editorial line? What is their ownership structure? How have they interpreted recent major regional and world events? What is their role in the public life of the Arab world? (Some attention to be given to Arab newspapers that have an English edition and/or are available on the Internet.) b) Which are the major Arab TV channels that are distinguished for their news service and discussion programmes? (Some attention to be given to the English-language ones.) Do they have an editorial line? How have they interpreted recent major regional and world events? What is their ownership structure? How is satellite TV shaping public opinion in the Arab world? II Tuesday 18 November. LC 216, 10.30am-12noon. The Western Media: an Arab Point of View What does an Arab journalist have to say about how Islam and Arabs feature in Western news services? Are there significant differences between rival TV channels and newspapers - or do Western media have very broad similarities? Are there any Western journalists that distinguish themselves by their subtle understanding of events in the Arab world? Press Release No.: 25/2003 THE WINNERS OF THE THIRTEENTH EDITION OF On the occasion of the 14th anniversary of the foundation of its foundation, on Monday 3 November 2003, The Malta Press Club organised the thirteenth edition of the Malta Journalism Awards. From 56 participants in the preliminary phase, 21 finalists reached the finals phase. The jury composed of Mr Tonio Farrugia, Mr Charles Mizzi and Mr Victor Formosa as Chairman chose the winners for these categories: Print Journalism: Joe Mifsud Broadcast Script Journalism: Glenn Bedingfield Press Photography:Christian Sant Fournier Press Cartoons: Maurice Tanti Burlo' E-Journalism:Martin Debattista Broadcast Film Journalism: Marvin Baldacchino Sports Journalism:Christian Micallef L-Ilsien Malti fil-Gurnalizmu: Joyce Guillaumier
Press Release No: 23/2003 TMPC SUBMISSION PUBLISHED IN HOUSE OF COMMONS REPORT A submission presented by The Malta Press Club (TMPC) has been published in a report about privacy and media intrusion issued by a Select Committee of the British House of Commons. The submission about the Maltese experience of self-regulation of the media was made by TMPC International and Legal Affairs Secretary Joe Mifsud in London. The Select Committee on Culture, Media and Sport of the House of Commons was investigating, among other things, whether the system of media self-regulation adopted in the UK through the Press Complaints Commission (PCC) was adequate or not. There had been various calls for a media privacy law to be introduced in Britain and do away with the PCC, but the final report as well as the British government accepted that self-regulation by the media is the best solution. PCC director Guy Black wrote a letter to Mr Mifsud to thank him and TMPC for the submission made to the Select Committee. Mr Black said: "You will recall that earlier this year the PCC and media regulation was the subject of inquiry by a parliamentary inquiry in the UK. Following the conclusion of that inquiry I am writing to thank you very sincerely indeed for sending a submission to the Select Committee. I cannot overstate how significant and gratifying your support has been." "The inquiry gave us a welcome opportunity to state the overwhelming case for self-regulation of the press. It brought home to me the extent to which self-regulation operates successfully around Europe, not always in precisely the same form but always with the same basic precepts." "There is not doubt in my mind that the work we all do is extremely important and I hope that we have been able to convince some of the Members of Parliament of our effectiveness. The fact that the recently-published Select Committee report endorsed the work of the PCC and the principle of self-regulation would suggest that we have." "Your words of support will have played an important part in the process and will have demonstrated how widely self-regulation is seen as the best way of maintaining a free and responsible press", the PCC director concluded. In its submission, TMPC explained how the Press Ethics Commission (PEC) works in Malta in providing a self-regulatory framework for the media. "As such, the Press Ethics Commission is one of a growing number of organisations in Europe and elsewhere responsible for the self-regulation of the press. Many countries are learning that the answer to the old problem of how to keep the press free but responsible lies in effective self-regulation." "No press can be free if it is supervised by anyone, be it by parliament or the courts -- and such an idea would strike fear into the minds of those Eastern European democracies who are currently exploring self-regulation as the only feasible way of regulating the press", TMPC said in its submission.
Press Release 22 / 2003 MIA SPONSORS PRESS CARTOONS FOR MALTA JOURNALISM AWARDS For the Chief Executive Officer of Malta International Airport (MIA), Mr Peter R. Bolech, the sponsorship of the Malta Journalism Awards is the first tangible sign of MIA's support for The Malta Press Club (TMPC). "MIA appreciates the commitment of The Malta Press Club towards the professionalisation process of journalism and journalists in Malta," said Mr Bolech, during the signing of the sponsorship agreement with The Malta Press Club. MIA is sponsoring the press cartoons category for which there are two finalists from a field of six press cartoonists. These are Maurice Tanti Burlò from The Sunday Times and Mr James Sciberras from media.link. TMPC Chairman, Malcolm J. Naudi, said that the Malta Journalism Awards' objective is to recognise significant contributions to professional journalism by Maltese journalists. He thanked MIA for their support. "As the Awards Presentation Ceremony to be held on Monday, 3 November, 2003, draws nearer, one can confirm that from the initial feedback we are receiving from the judging panel for submissions for this 13th edition of the Malta Journalism Awards is quite a healthy one in most categories," said Mr Naudi. "For this edition, the judging panel has selected 21 finalists in seven different categories. We are also noticing that, year after year, each judging panel is being more stringent than the previous one. This is one way how we can raise standards in all sectors of journalism in Malta." TMPC was set up in 1989 and, since then, this organisation achieved a number of firsts for Maltese journalists, journalism and for Maltese society as a whole. These included a code of ethics, the setting up of the Press Ethics Commission and the introduction of source confidentiality in Maltese law, to mention just three important milestones. "We believe that these Awards offer a fair and challenging opportunity for Maltese press cartoonists to further raise the satisfactory standard achieved in recent years. Our sponsorship of the press cartoons category even goes well beyond. It is a clear sign of encouragement and of unequivocal support by Malta International Airport as a corporate citizen to The Malta Press Club's efforts," concluded Mr Bolech.
Press release no.: 20/2003
As a sign of recognition to the work by The Malta Press Club (TMPC) for the benefit of journalism in Malta, Government has asked TMPC to nominate its representatives on two boards. These are the Special Interest Group of the Malta-EU Steering and Action Committee (MEUSAC) and the National Consultative Council on the Information Society. On its part, TMPC Council nominated Secretary Joe A Vella to serve on the Special Interest Group of MEUSAC and Education and Information Secretary Charlot Zahra to serve on the National Consultative Council on the Information Society. TMPC Chairman Malcolm J Naudi said: "These
two nominations are another certificate of the relentless work
that The Malta Press Club is effecting to improve the situation
of journalism in Malta. This event will enhance the resolve
of The Malta Press Club to continue working for the benefit
of Maltese journalists".
PRESS RELEASE: 23.09.2003 WIEHED U GHOXRIN FINALIST GHAT-TLETTAX-IL EDIZZJONI
The Malta Press Club habbar l-ismijiet tal-wiehed u ghoxrin (21) finalist li lahqu l-istadju finali minn fost il-56 partecipant li hadu sehem fil-kompetizzjoni gurnalistika Malta Journalism Awards. Din hija t-tlettax-il edizzjoni konsekuttiva li The Malta Press Club qed jorganizza kull sena fuq bazi annwali. Il-kompetizzjoni ghandha seba' kategoriji. Ghall-ewwel darba hemm diversi istituzzjonijiet u kumpanniji ewlenin li qed jisponsorjaw il-Malta Journalism Awards, fosthom l-HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c., l-Awtorita` tax-Xandir, HP-Compaq, Michele Peresso Ltd. l-operaturi tal-EuroSport, The Farsons Foundation u l-Malta International Airport. Il-Gurija ta' din l-edizzjoni ghazlet dawn il-finalisti mnizzlin hawn f'ordni alfabetika: - Kategorija A: Gurnalizmu Stampat - Roderick J. Agius (Il-Mument)
Paul Cachia (di-ve.com),
Maurice Tanti Burlo' (The Times) u - Kategorija D: Fotografija Gurnalizmu Michael Ellul (In-Nazzjon)
Domenic Aquilina (uefa.com)
Marvin Baldacchino (Super 1)
Glenn Bedingfield (Super 1)
Il-Gurija qed thejji wkoll rapport dettaljat dwar is-sottomissjonijiet u l-livell gurnalistiku taghhom li ghandu jinqara qabel il-premjazzjoni. Din is-sena c-cerimonja tal-premjazzjoni se ssir fil-bidu ta' Novembru 2003. Ir-rebbieh tal-kategorija gdida l-Lingwa Nazzjonali
fil-Gurnalizmu sponsorjata mill-Akkademja tal-Malti bl-ghajnuna
tal-Ministeru ta' l-Edukazzjoni, jithabbar fil-lejla tal-prezentazzjoni.
F'din il-kategorija hemm 14-il partecipant.
17.09.03 HP SPONSORS NEW E-JOURNALISM CATEGORY IN JOURNALISM AWARDS
"The internet has become an increasingly important medium for many news organisations in Malta. Not only have we seen traditional newspapers launching on-line versions but a whole host of new websites dedicated to news, have also sprung up. TMPC recognised the growing importance of this new medium and is grateful that HP, a company renowned for being on the cutting edge of new technology has helped us to make this award a reality," said Mr Malcolm J. Naudi, Chairman of The Malta Press Club. "As leading information technology company which relies on the web for its external and internal communication and powers many popular websites, we appreciate the extension of the Malta Journalism Awards with the e-Journalism Category. In a fast changing world on-line media are an important "real-time" complement to the treasured printed editions," comments Jan Graef, the HP District Manager. This e-Journalism Category in this year's Malta Journalism Awards is open to all journalists who contributed work to Malta based websites during 2002. There were seven submissions in this new category, making use of the websites www.uefa.com, www.di-ve.com, www.maltamedia.com and www.maltastar.com. Further information about the Malta Journalism Awards may be obtained from The Malta Press Club by sending a letter to P.O. Box 412, Valletta, by calling on 2124 3212, sending a fax on 2124 9290, or from the website www.maltapressclub.org.mt.
Press Release: 17 September 2003 BSA announces its 3rd press competition for Malta & Cyprus
Mr Aly Harakeh, BSA Spokesperson Eastern Mediterranean Region: "This is the first time that journalists from Malta and Cyprus can join forces in order to make the public more sensitive on the issue of the violation of software copyright. This year presents us with a unique opportunity to cover the subject from a common, for both countries, angle, as part of the steps both countries are required to take before their full accession to the European Union". Encouraged by the success of the previous two editions, both held in Cyprus, the third annual press competition will be open for submissions from 18th September to 30th November 2003 for both Malta and Cyprus. During this period, both Maltese and Cypriot contestants will have to present published articles or broadcast news items or documentaries, which will emphasise the benefits of legitimate software in Malta's and Cyprus' economic development. Journalists in Malta may obtain a copy of the BSA Press competition regulations, either from their respective Editors or by sending an email to bonelloc@bpc.com.mt The regulations are also available on the website of The Malta Press Club here A different judge panel will select the best participant from each country. The Maltese panel of judges will be made up of qualified persons from the business, academia and journalism sectors. They will evaluate all entries according to their originality, clarity and extent of coverage of the subject. The press competition is being held in the framework of a wider awareness campaign that will expand to cover seminars, training programs, and other activities aimed at companies, industries or individuals using software. BSA (www.bsa.org), as the voice of the most important software industries all over the world, has set as its firm objective to reduce software piracy in Cyprus and Malta to the levels of the other European countries and to develop the software sector in Cyprus and Malta. This will have beneficial effects on the standard of living in both Cyprus and Malta. The principal members of BSA are Adobe, Apple
Computer, Autodesk, Avid, Bentley Systems, Borland, CNC Software/Mastercam,
Internet Security Systems, Macromedia, Microsoft, Network Associates
and Symatec.
Press Release No.: 17/2003 THE MALTA PRESS CLUB WANTS A NEW CHAPTER More than simply a lifting of a boycott Everyone should bear responsibility: Government The Council of The Malta Press Club (TMPC) welcomes with satisfaction the decision of the Malta Labour Party (MLP) Parliamentary Group and the MLP's National Executive to not to leave any void in its participation in the media; not even on national broadcasting. The Press Club interprets this as an end to the boycott. The Malta Press Club wants a new chapter to be opened in relations between the Parties, Media Owners and Journalists. This is to everyone's benefit: the consumer who wants to hear everyone's version of events; and the Parties themselves, which will be able to bring across its views freely. The Malta Press Club believes that: a) this new chapter should be far wider and open than some people who have a limited, personal agenda think; b) the political Parties, Media Owners as well as all journalists should play their part to the full; c) this new chapter should provide is an opportunity for journalists to recognise that a positive era is being initiated. This should be reciprocated and trust fostered in all sides so that in this way the people's trust can be strengthened in a democratic environment.
A BOYCOTT SHOULD NOT BE THE SOLUTION The Malta Press Club reiterates that boycotts, although legitimate and acceptable, should not be resorted to as an easy solution but only when all other avenues have been exhausted. Now that a new avenue is being opened, The Malta Press Club can reveal that in the past few months it was in contact and held meetings with the Malta Labour Party so that the MLP's relations with all of the Media will be normalised. During these contacts and meetings, the Labour Party expressed the wish that journalists and Media that are not of the same political belief be more just in their attitude to the MLP. This is because the Press Club believes that there are other legal remedies that can be resorted to if anyone feels that they are being discriminated against or if there is a lack of balance in their regard, and in this way they will take what is theirs by right.
ALTERNATIVE MEASURES It is important for the public to know that, according to the Code of Journalism Ethics, approved by Maltese journalists, a person has the right to refuse to answer a question that is made, just like journalists have the right to ask questions of their choice. Everyone has their agenda and so even the media and media owners have their own opinions. While individuals have the right to disagree with this position, they should give their version or opinion as well and have access to communicate their message.
A NEW CHAPTER SHOULD BE OPENED The Labour Party's gesture should not be the only one. Others need to carry more responsibility, including any Government, all the Political Parties, all the Media Owners, every Journalist, and the Broadcasting Authority. New practices also need to be introduced.
GOVERNMENT IS OBLIGED TO ANSWER EVERYONE The Malta Press Club refers to the Press Act, which states that the Government is obliged not to discriminate against any medium and must reply to everyone. The Malta Press Club maintains that the practice needs to be introduced in Malta that whatever applies to every Government applies equally - within the limits of what is possible and practicable - to every government in waiting, that is every Opposition.
A TOTAL DISTINCTION NEEDS TO BE MADE The Malta Press Club also maintains that we need to start making a total distinction in Malta between columnists and journalists. The practice should be that columnists can say what they want in their columns, while being subject to the law and journalistic ethics. Journalists, on the other hand, are bound by the principle that facts are sacred. Therefore, they should build their story on facts and not on comment or opinion. Today some still confuse all of this without making this distinction.
APPEAL TO LOOK TO THE FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE Now that this new chapter is being opened, The Malta Press Club appeals to the: a) Political Parties b) Journalists c) Media Owners d) Broadcasting Authority e) Maltese public Finally, The Malta Press Club associates itself with the opinions expressed by on Tuesday, 19 August, 2003, by the President of Malta. Guido de Marco, that state broadcasting should be run in a way that every Maltese can feel comfortable to watch or listen and identify with because it is not owned by a political party. State broadcasting should be balanced in a way that all the opinions in the country are reflected in its coverage. The Malta Press Club wishes that the day will
come when these practices will be adopted by all the local Media.
Press Release: 16 /2003 LESS THAN TWO WEEKS TO GO FOR 6TH GOLD AWARD NOMINATIONS The Council of The Malta Press Club (TMPC) said that it has already received various enquiries regarding nominations for the 6th edition of the Gold Award. "The Gold Award has been instituted as the highest journalistic prize in Malta in 1998, following a suggestion to The Malta Press Club by the founder of BPC International Limited, Mr Joseph Brockdorff," explained TMPC's General Secretary, Mr Joe A. Vella. "The aim of this award is to honour in their lifetime those journalists resident in Malta who have given more than a significant contribution to journalism through a lifelong commitment which goes beyond the call of normal journalistic duty." "We are delighted to continue our association with the Malta Journalism Awards, by sponsoring the Gold Award, now entering its 6th edition", said Mr David Brockdorff, BPC's Managing Director. "BPC had sponsored the entire edition of the Malta Journalism Awards for their first 12 years. These Awards have now established themselves to the extent that other different sponsors are willing to come forward and give their support to different categories," he said. "Through these Awards, The Malta Press Club is demonstrating its on-going effort to enhance professional journalism in our country and this commitment should be supported and encouraged. BPC has retained the sponsorship of the Gold Award as a tangible sign of support and encouragement for the sterling and essential work of The Malta Press Club." The Press Club Council had set the deadline for nominations for Friday 29th August 2003 to give more time for the research phase to those who intend to nominate individuals or organisations. Each submission has to be accompanied by the relevant information and material sustaining that submission, including a detailed profile and testimonials. An independent, autonomous judging panel composed of persons of national stature, nominated by TMPC Council, will adjudicate the nominations. Nominations are to be sent to the Gold Award Commission, BPC International Limited, J. Gasan Street, Pieta', by not later than Friday, 29th August, during office hours. Further information and the Gold Award regulations may be obtained from The Malta Press Club's General Secretary on tel: 2137-3826, from the Malta Journalsim Awards' Project Director, Carmel Bonello, on tel 2124-3211, or from the website: www.maltapressclub.org.mt The prestigious Gold Award trophy will be presented to the winner during the presentation ceremony of the Malta Journalism Awards. The five previous winners were Fr Joe Borg (1998), Anton Cassar (1999), Frank Attard (2000), J.G. Vassallo (2001) and Anthony Montanaro (2002).
Press Release 15/2003
REPORTING SUICIDE: GUIDELINES FOR JOURNALISTS FROM JOURNALISTS The Malta Press Club is joining The PressWise Trust, the National Union of Journalists (UK and Ireland) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) in recommending these guidelines, which were compiled in consultation with suicide prevention agencies. The aim of the guidelines is to assist print, broadcast and on-line journalists to appreciate the risks associated with suicide coverage, and suggest simple ways of avoiding unnecessary harm. Sensitive reporting saves lives Sensitive reporting includes: " consideration for the feelings of relatives; Avoid sensational headlines, images, and language Publicising details of suicide methods can encourage
imitation Avoid speculation, especially about 'celebrity'
suicides Suicide is a complex issue, often linked to mental
illness Consider context - suicides in institutions deserve
investigation Challenge 'myths' about suicide Censorship or misinformation about suicide is
unhelpful Put people in touch with suicide prevention agencies Journalists are vulnerable too - support colleagues
THE MALTA PRESS CLUB LAUNCHES NEW FORMAT FOR
The Malta Press Club (TMPC) launched the 13th edition of the annual press competition with a new format, more categories and an array of new sponsors. As from this year, the competition will be called the MALTA JOURNALISM AWARDS.
- The previous Broadcast Journalism category has
now been subdivided into two - Another new category covers e-Journalism. - In order to recognise the importance of good
Maltese in journalism, all submissions The prize fund has also been increased. In consultation with BPC, Malta's leading marketing communications agency, who has sponsored this award for the first 12 editions, as from this year, each and every category is sponsored by a different and major sponsor. BPC retained the sponsorship of the prestigious Gold Award. These Awards are usually held to coincide with the World Press Freedom Day on 3rd May. The Council of The Malta Press Club explained that this edition's regulations are being announced later on this year for two particular reasons: Maltese journalists had to focus on three particular major and very significant events this year - namely the EU Referendum, the 2003 General Elections and the 2003 Games of the Small States of Europe - and the Malta Press Club had to restructure the competition and present a new format, seeking no fewer than eight new sponsors. The MALTA JOURNALISM AWARDS are open to all journalists
in Malta and Gozo, whether they are members of The Malta Press
Club or not, who during the Year 2002 have striven to improve
the standard of journalism in Malta. All entries, whether in
Maltese or in English, must have been published or broadcast
in Malta between 1st January 2002 and 31st December 2002. Apart from the journalist himself/herself, Editors and Heads of News Departments may select and submit entries of what they consider to be the best work of their respective individual journalist/s. Submissions can also be forwarded by organisations, corporations and bodies. In both cases, consent has to be given by the individual journalist/s concerned by filling the appropriate part on the Official Application Form prior to submission of entry by Editor, Head of News Department, or organisations/corporations/bodies. The categories together with the respective sponsors are: Category Sponsor: 1 Print Journalism HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. 2 Press Photography 3 Press Cartoons Malta International Airport 4 e-Journalism 5 Sport Journalism 6 Broadcast Script Journalism 7 Broadcast Film Journalism 8 Il-Lingwa Nazzjonali fil-{urnali\mu Gold Award BPC Sixth Edition Fondazzjoni Tumas Fenech g]all-Edukazzjoni fil-Gurnalizmu will be also sponsoring part of the prizes in all submission categories. A lot of voluntary commitment goes into organising
the MALTA JOURNALISM AWARDS on professional lines. The Council would like to see substantial improvement
in both the broadcast categories and the press cartoons category. The Malta Press Club explained that it is prepared to re-launch a specific radio journalism category once submission of good quality are presented in the Broadcast Script Journalism category starting from this edition. Submissions Each entry shall consist of three totally different submissions (each submission dealing with a totally different subject) participating in the same Category. Entries may cover any subject including investigative/hard news, social issues, economic and financial matters, services and manufacture industries, Malta-EU issues, sports, and cultural affairs. All journalists participate as individuals, except in the Sports Journalism Category. Sports journalists in Malta can submit their respective print, radio or television entries in this category. Entries in all categories shall be handed in to the MALTA JOURNALISTM AWARDS Secretariat, c/o BPC International Limited, J. Gasan Street, Pieta`, on any weekday between 8am and 3pm, but not later than 12 noon on Friday 8th August 2003. Regulations and applications may be obtained either from The Malta Press Club, P.O. Box 412, Valletta (tel: 2124-3212; fax: 2124 9290), or from the website: www.maltapressclub.org.mt as from Monday 28th July 2003.
Prizes: Certificates will be presented to each Finalist. The winner of the Print Journalism, Press Photography, Press Cartoons, Sports Journalism, Broadcast Script Journalism, Broadcast Film Journalism and e-Journalism categories will each be awarded: a) a cash prize of Lm150; The winner of the special category entitled Il-Lingwa Nazzjonali fil-{urnali\mu will be presented with the Malta Journalism Award trophy for that category.
Gold Award - 6th Edition During the press conference, The Malta Press Club launched the sixth edition of the Gold Award. The aim of the Gold Award is to honour in their lifetime those who have given more than a significant contribution to journalism through a lifelong of commitment which goes beyond the call of normal journalistic duty. The closing date for Gold Award nominations is Friday 29th August 2003 so that more time will be available to submit the researched material needed to sustain each nomination. "We are very pleased, once again, to be associated with the Malta Journalism Awards, now entering its 13th year", BPC managing director David Brockdorff, said. "We feel that these Awards have now established themselves to the extent that other different sponsors are willing to come forward and give their support to different categories." "At the same time, we still believe that
through these Awards, The Malta Press Club is demonstrating
its on-going effort to enhance professional journalism in our
country. This is a commitment that should be supported and encouraged.
For this reason, BPC shall retain the sponsorship of the Gold
Award as a tangible sign of support and encouragement for the
sterling and essential work of The Malta Press Club."
IL-KUNSILL MALTI GHALL-KULTURA U L-ARTI flimkien ma' THE MALTA PRESS CLUB ihabbru r-Regolamenti ghall-JOURNALIST CULTURE CARD 13 ta' Mejju 2003 Bil-hsieb li jkompli jsahhah il-qasam tal-gurnalizmu
kulturali, The Malta Press Club (TMPC) holoq l-inizzjattiva
tal-Journalist Culture Card. Din l-inizzjattiva sabet kemm l-appogg
kif ukoll il-koperazzjoni tac-Chairman u l-Kunsill Malti ghall-Kultura
u l-Arti (KMKA). Il-mira tal-Journalist Culture Card hija li tidentifika u tibni grupp ta' gurnalisti li jirsistu biex i\idu fil-gherf u l-professjonalita' fil-qasam tal-gurnali\mu kulturali. B'dan il-mod, gurnalisti Maltin ikunu e\empju haj fl-istharrig dwar l-identita' kulturali Maltija u jghinu fid-demokratizzazzjoni tal-process kulturali. Il-Journalist Culture Card iggorr maghha kemm dmirijiet u obbligi kif ukoll beneficcji. Fost id-dmirijiet hemm li l-gurnalist ghandu jinforma u jeduka l-pubbliku dwar attivitajiet kulturali f'Malta; ihaddan u jkattar l-identita' kulturali Maltija permezz tal-gurnalizmu kulturali, u li jaghmel hiltu wkoll biex ikabbar il-gherf u l-professjonalita' tal-kultura u l-arti Maltin. Il-gurnalisti kollha ta' nazzjonalita' Maltija, li jseqwu l-qasam kulturali, jistghu japplikaw ghall-Journalist Culture Card. L-applikanti ghandhom jissottomettu l-portfolio rispettiv taghhom sa mhux aktar tard minn nhar il-{imgha 13 ta' {unju 2003 lill- Journalist Culture Card Adjudicating Panel, Kunsill Malti ghall-Kultura u l-Arti, f'Casa Gaspe, 230, Triq ir-Repubblika, il-Belt Valletta. Kull portfolio ghandu jkun maghmul minn ghazla tax-xoghol kulturali relevanti li l-applikant xandar jew ippubblika matul is-sena kalendarja 2002. Flimkien mal-portfolio, wiehed ghandu jinkludi zewg ritratti tal-kulur ta' l-applikant (id-daqs ta' dawk ta' passaport). Minbarra li se jkunu ppubblikati fil-Gazzetta tal-Gvern, ir-regolamenti tal-Journalist Culture Card se jkunu fuq il-websajt kemm tat-TMPC (www.maltapressclub.org.mt) kif ukoll tal-KMKA (www.maltaculture.com). Sa l-20 ta' {unju 2003, l-Adjudicating Panel, mahtur flimkien minn The Malta Press Club u l-Kunsill Malti ghall-Kultura u l-Arti, ikun ezamina l-applikazzjonijiet sottomessi skond kriterji partikulari. Huwa mistenni li l-ghazla ta' min ser tinhariglu l-Journalist Culture Card tkun lesta sat-Tlieta 24 ta' Gunju 2003. Il-prezentazzjoni tal-Journalist Culture Card lill-gurnalisti koncernati ssir fil-Kavallier ta' San Gakbu fil-gimgha li tibda fit-23 ta' {unju. Il-Journalist Culture Card tkun valida bejn l-1 ta' Lulju u l-31 ta' Dicembru 2003. Il-Journalist Culture Card mhux ser tkun imgedda awtomatikament ghas-sena ta' wara, izda dak li jkun jissottometti portfolio gdid f'Novembru 2003. Dan qed isir biex ikun hemm monitoragg mill-KMKA u t-TMPC, kif ukoll biex ikun hemm impenn akbar mill-gurnalisti li joperaw fil-qasam kulturali. Bil-ghan li jibda jinghata gharfien lill-gurnalisti kulturali, il-Kunsill Malti ghall-Kultura u l-Arti ser jippubblika fil-Gazzetta tal-Gvern il-lista ta' dawk kollha li tinhargilhom il-Journalist Culture Card. Fost il-beneficcji tal-Journalist Culture Card hemm li dawn il-gurnalisti partikulari ser jinghataw access b'xejn ghall-attivitajiet kulturali kollha tal-Gvern li jsiru fil-Lista ta' Postijiet (imnizzla hawn taht) sakemm il-gurnalist (li jista' jkun ukoll fil-kumpannija ta' persuna wahda ohra biss) javza lill-organizzaturi relevanti ta' l-inqas sebat ijiem ta' xoghol (working days) minn qabel . Il-Lista ta' postijiet li fihom gurnalist se jkun jista' juza l-Journalist Culture Card mistennija tinkludi : Teatru Manoel, ic-~entru ghall-Konferenzi - Dar il-Mediterran, ic-Centru ghall-Kreattivita' - Kavallier ta' San Gakbu, attivitajiet tas-Socjeta' Maltija ghall-Arti, Manifattura u Kummerc, attivitajiet kulturali ohra organizzati mill-KMKA u minn kull entita' kulturali ohra mahtura mill-Gvern. Dawk li jkollhom il-Journalist Culture Card huma responsabbli wkoll ghall-persuna li jkollhom maghhom kemm f'dik li hija kondotta skond l-okkazzjoni kif ukoll rigward mgieba etika qabel, waqt u wara l-attivita'. Il-gurnalisti kulturali ghandhom l-obbligu li jzommu ruhhom aggornati sew dwar il-qasam tal-gurnalizmu kulturali billi jattendu u jippartecipaw f'tahdidiet, seminars u korsijiet li jkunu organizzati minn zmien ghall-iehor. Il-Kunsill Malti ghall-Kultura u l-Arti, b'koperazzjoni ma' The Malta Press Club, ser jaghmel l-almu tieghu biex jorganizza fuq bazi annwali kors jew workshop jew seminar bil-ghan li jkompli jtejjeb il-hiliet gurnalistici kemm ta' dawk li ghandhom kif ukoll ta' dawk li jixtiequ jkollhom il-Journalist Culture Card. Ikklikkja hawn ghar-regolamenti u formola ta' l-applikazzjoni
Press Release 10/2003 THE MALTA PRESS CLUB COMMEMORATES WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY May 3 marks the annual World Press Freedom Day commemorated by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation). World Press Freedom Day 2003 is dedicated to Impunity. According to the professional organisations, of the 523 journalists killed between 1992 and 2002, 374 were intentionally murdered: 128 for their political opinions, 67 for having exposed corruption, and 179 because they were in conflict areas but were killed despite having identified themselves as reporters. The situation in 2003 is not much better, with 23 journalists already killed in the first four months of this year. Of these, 14 were killed during the War in Iraq. Unfortunately, in the course of exercising their profession, journalists may be subject to harassment, imprisonment, attack, and even murder. Apart from the suffering of the victim, such abuses are also a grave curtailment of freedom of expression, with all that this implies as a limitation on the enjoyment of freedoms and rights in society at large. For whenever one journalist is exposed to violence, intimidation or arbitrary detention because of his or her commitment to conveying the truth, all citizens are robbed of the right to express themselves and act according to their conscience. It is a very sad and disturbing fact that most of the crimes against journalists go unpunished. Impunity is not only a violation of the right of freedom of expression but also a denial of the right to the truth - for the victim or closely-related persons and for the whole of society. Where impunity rules, the death-knell of freedom, security and the rule of law is sounded. The Malta Press Club joins fellow professional organisations worldwide in commemorating World Press Freedom Day 2003. Although fortunately no journalists have been killed in Malta, there have been various instances of physical harassment against journalists throughout the years. Since 2001, a total of nine cases of physical assault against journalists were reported to The Malta Press Club. Many more have gone unreported. Unfortunately, most of these crimes committed against journalists in Malta during the exercise of their duties either went unpunished, or the assailants were meted out derisory punishments. The Malta Press Club calls on the authorities to issue stiffer punishments against these crimes, as well as to afford better protection to journalists in hotspots where such incidents occurred in the past, such as the Law Courts and during public meetings. The Malta Press Club would also like to remind that the 2003 edition of the Malta Journalism Awards, which are usually held on 3 May to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, will be launched later this month.
Stqarrija numru 09/2003
Il-Kunsill b'dispjacir jinnota li l-problema ta' l-access ghall-process ta' l-ghadd tal-voti li kien hemm waqt ir-referendum tat-8 ta' Marzu ser terga' tinholoq fl-elezzjoni generali, anzi ser tehzien ghax l-ghadd ta' passes li nhargu lill-media naqas bi 30 fil-mija fuq dawk li nhargu ghar-referendum. Dan ser iwassal biex numru sostanzjali ta' gurnalisti mhux ser ikollhom il-possibilita' li jassistu ghall-process ta' l-ghadd tal-voti. Fil-fehma tal-Kunsill ta' TMPC, dan ser iwassal sabiex il-kwalita' ta' rappurtagg moghti mill-gurnalisti ser ikun affettwat negattivament, b'detriment ghall-qarrejja, semmiegha u telespettaturi, li ghandhom id-dritt ghal informazzjoni shiha u kompleta. Din id-decizjoni min-naha tal-Kummissjoni Elettorali ser timpedixxi lill-gurnalisti milli jaqdu ir-rwol taghhom ta' "ghassiesa tal-poplu" f'socjeta' demokratika. B'hekk il-gurnalisti mhux ser ikollhom il-possiblita' li jassiguraw b'mod shih li l-process elettorali huwa wiehed korrett u trasparenti. Il-Kunsill ta' TMPC jifhem li l-Kummissjoni Elettorali taghmel is-salvagwardji kollha xierqa biex l-access tal-gurnalisti f'postijiet sensittivi jkun regolat, imma dan qatt m'ghandu jservi biex l-access tal-media ghall-process ta' l-ghadd tal-voti jkun immazzrat. Il-fatt li hawn korp gurnalistiku relattivament kbir f'dan il-pajjiz m'ghandux jitqies bhala xkiel mill-awtoritajiet anzi ghandu jitqies bhala xi haga pozittiva li tixhed l-ispirtu demokratiku f'Malta. Ghaldaqstant il-Kunsill ta' TMPC jappella bis-shih
lill-Kummissjoni Elettorali sabiex tipprovdi facilitajiet XIERQA
u SHAH ghall-gurnalisti KOLLHA li talbu sabiex ikollhom access
ghall-process ta' l-ghadd tal-voti fl-elezzjoni generali tat-12
t'April 2003.
Stqarrija numru: 8/2003
Il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club iltaqa' l-lum b'urgenza biex jiddiskuti kif qed tizviluppa l-kampanja elettorali u kif din qed tolqot il-qasam gurnalistiku u lil dawk li jahdmu fih. Il-Kunsill innota b'dispjacir li matul din il-kampanja elettorali saru diversi attakki minn politici fuq gurnalisti, liema attakki jxekklu lill-gurnalisti fil-hidma taghhom. Il-gurnalist ghandu funzjoni importanti x'jaqdi biex iwassal lill-poplu Malti u Ghawdxi, messaggi u taghrif minn dawk li pprezentaw ruhhom biex jaqdu lil pajjizna. Min-naha taghhom, dawk li ghandhom ir-responsabbilta li jiddeciedu dwar il-kontenut li jidher jew jixxandar fil-mezzi ta' komunikazzjoni, ghandhom jaghtu spazju kemm jista' jkun lil kulhadd biex iwassal il-messagg tieghu. B'hekk ikunu qed jghinu lill-poplu jaghmel id-decizjonijiet tieghu b'mod infurmat. The Malta Press Club jaqbel li min qed jipprezenta ruhu biex iservi lill-pajjiz, ghandu jkun mgharbel mill-opinjoni pubblika. Dan hu wiehed mir-rwoli tal-gurnalist f'socjetà demokratika. Il-Kunsill jappella lill-partiti politici biex jirrispettaw il-hidma tal-gurnalisti u jaghtuhom kull opportunità li jaqdu dmirhom lejn il-qarrejja, semmiegha jew telespetatturi taghhom, billi jaghtuhom il-facilità li jwasslulhom informazzjoni shiha. Fiz-zmien sensittiv ta' elezzjoni generali, ghandu jsir minn kollox, minn kulhadd biex l-istampa ma tkun bl-ebda mod imxekkla fil-qadi ta' dmirijietha. F'dawn ic-cirkostanzi il-Kunsill jappella lil kulmin jikkontribwixxi fil-mezzi ta' komunikazzjoni biex filwaqt li jaqdi dmiru bla biza' jew favuri lejn il-pubbliku, ikun prudenti u jevita li juza' lingwagg jew grafika li jistghu jzidu t-tensjoni fil-pajjiz. Bla ma jidhol fil-merti ta' kazi li jistghu jkunu quddiem il-Qrati, imressqa minn min seta' hassu urtat b'kummenti maghmula minn xi sezzjoni ta' l-istampa jew b'decizjonijiet mehuda fil-konfront ta' mezzi ta' informazzjoni, il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club isostni li d-dritt ghal-liberta ta' l-espressjoni u d-dritt li wiehed jircievi informazzjoni, huma drittijiet inaljenabbli. F'dan il-kuntest, wiehed jifhem li l-Kostituzzjoni ta' Malta u l-ligijiet tal-pajjiz ipoggu obbligi fuq l-Awtorità tax-Xandir fil-funzjoni li din twettaq. Il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club ma jaqbilx li l-kontenut gurnalistiku ghandu jitwaqqaf jew ikun mifli qabel jixxandar. Min-naha l-ohra jhoss li min ihossu offiz b'dak li jkun publikat jew imxandar ghandu jiehu l-passi kollha li taghtih il-ligi biex ihares id-drittijiet tieghu u l-gurnalisti irid jiffaccja l-konsegwenzi f'kaz li jonqos. Il-Kunsill jaqbel li l-Awtorita' tax-Xandir ghandha l-obbligu li fuq materji ta' kontroversja politika kurrenti - kif necessarjament huma l-elezzjonijiet generali - tassigura li l-partiti kollha jinghataw l-istess facilitajiet fuq il-mezzi tax-xandir ta' l-Istat biex iwasslu l-fehmiet taghhom. Il-partiti ghandhom ikunu fil-libertà li jaghmlu uzu jew jirrinunzjaw ghal dawn il-facilitajiet, minghajr pregudizzju ghall-partiti l-ohra. Fl-ahhar nett, il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club, filwaqt li jirriafferma d-drittijiet kollha ta' libertà tal-kelma u l-espressjoni, jappella lill-partiti politici biex japprezzaw u jirrispettaw il-hidma tal-gurnalisti, anke jekk mhux dejjem jaqblu maghhom, u jheggeg lill-gurnalisti u kontributuri biex ifittxu li jaqdu dmirhom b'lealtà lejn il-poplu u anke lejn dawk li joffru s-servizz taghhom ghall-gid tal-poplu Malti u Ghawdxi u jiddedikaw ruhhom ghall-hajja politika.
Press Release 07//2003
The Malta Press Club (TMPC) hosted fifteen journalists from each of the European Union (EU) Member States in Malta as part of the European Journalism Centre (EJC)'s programme on Small Countries in the EU.
The subjects discussed during the seminar sessions included the economy, the Maltese language, workers' mobility in the EU, the environment, and the Euro. Other sessions tackled the question of Malta's relationship with the EU and how this affects African countries, cross-border relationships, the advantages and disadvantages of small Nations in the EU, and Malta's role in the Euro-Med Partnership. Also taking part in the seminar was Ambassador Ronald Gallimore, Head of the European Commission delegation in Malta, who addressed Malta's relationship with the EU. In addition, there was a discussion on Malta's options on the matter with the participation of Foreign Affairs Minister Joe Borg and shadow Foreign Affairs Minister George Vella. The journalists were also received by President Guido de Marco at the Palace in Valletta, who were led by TMPC Council Members and the EJC Seminar Coordinator Giuseppe Zaffuto. Prof de Marco and the journalists held an hour-long meeting during which the President spoke about the Constitutional role of the Office of the President, particularly at this delicate moment. The President also spoke about Malta's role in Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as about the Middle East crisis.
Stqarrija numru 06/2003 THE MALTA PRESS CLUB JAPPELLA SABIEX IL-GURNALISTI MALTIN MA JKUNUX DISKRIMINATI Il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club (TMPC) jinnota li f'dawn il-jiem hawn u ser ikun hawn bosta gurnalisti u xandara barranin sabiex jirrapportaw ir-referendum dwar is-shubija ta' Malta fl-Unjoni Ewropeja fit-8 ta' Marzu. Il-Kunsill ta' TMPC iqis dan il-fatt bhala xi haga pozittiva li minnha ser jistaghnu l-gurnalisti Maltin. Madanakollu il-Kunsill ta' TMPC jaghmel appell
lill-awtoritajiet sabiex il-gurnalisti Maltin, li minn dejjem
qdew bl-ahjar mod lil pajjizhom, ma jkunux diskriminati sabiex
jinqdew il-gurnalisti barranin, bhalma b'xorti hazina gara f'bosta
grajjiet ta' ahbarijiet u sport fil-passat.
D.O.I: 28th February 2003 MALTA PRESS CLUB COMMITTEE MEMBERS CALL ON THE PRESIDENT
This was stated by H.E. Prof. Guido de Marco, President of Malta, when he received this morning at the Palace, Valletta, the chairman and officials of the Malta Press Club, who were accompanied by journalists from European Union member countries participating in a seminar entitled "Small Countries in the EU", organised by the same organisation. Referring to the future decisions to be taken
by the country, the President said that Malta is at present
experiencing a political debate where different views and opinions
are being conveyed with vigour. Speaking about the Constitutional
responsibilities of a Head of State, he said that a President
is not there to administer, but to preside over the country.
Therefore, it is within this context, that he should serve as
a focal point for national unity, while defending the country's
constitution. "Malta", said the President, "as a country situated in the middle of this mare nostrum, has to serve as a bridge between the northern and southern littorals of the region." Prof. de Marco added that Malta's responsibility, coupled with the fact that we belong to Europe as a people, should be one, which carries an understanding together with an awareness of its neighbouring countries. "This is the way in which Malta has been adapting itself in the international arena, and if the people decide to join the European Union, this is the role which Malta will continue to play in the Union itself." Prof. Guido de Marco also stated that on the 8th March, the sovereignty of the people of Malta would be reaffirmed, as this is the essence to any democracy. "Entrenched in Malta's Constitution is its neutrality. If the people had to decide for membership of the Union, our country would be in a position of sharing its status with other neutral states like Austria, Ireland, Finland and Sweden." The President said that there is a common consensus
among the people of Malta on the issue of neutrality, concluding
that this can be, an added contribution for the realisation
of peace between the northern and southern parts of the Mediterranean.
Stqarrija numru 04/2003 THE MALTA PRESS CLUB JILQA' B'SODISFAZZJON SENTENZA TAL-QORTI Il-Kunsill ta' The Malta Press Club (TMPC) jilqa' b'sodifazzjon is-sentenza moghtija mill-Qorti Civili presjeduta mill-Magistrat Silvio Meli. Dan sehh fil-proceduri ghal dispezz tal-Qorti fil-konfront ta' Hugo Chetcuti, wara l-attakk fiziku li sofra l-Membru tal-Kunsill tal-Press Club, Joe Mifsud, fil-bini tal-Qorti fis-27 t'Awissu 2002. Chetcuti nstab hati u kien immultat Lm380 minkejja li ammetta l-akkuzi migjuba kontrih. Il-Qorti fis-sentenza taghha stqarret bla tlaqliq li "gurnalist li jkun prezenti fil-kuriduri ta' dawn il-qrati li jkun ikkoncentrat fuq xogho,l qatt m'ghandu jghaddi minn esperjenza hekk sgradevoli - specjalment meta dan qieghed mhux biss iwettaq id-doveri tieghu bhal kull haddiem iehor, izda qed iservi kemm lill-opinjoni pubblika li ghandha dritt tkun informata b'dak li jkun qed jigri fil-qrati u lill-istess qrati stante li permezz tal-professjoni tieghu d-doveri taghhom jigu rezi trasparenti". Il-Qorti qalet ukoll li "persuna f'socjeta' demokratikament sana qatt m'ghandha tiddiminwixxi d-dinjita' taghha billi tagixxi b'dan il-mod stante li din is-socjeta' tipprotegi d-drittijiet taghha wkoll billi tforni lill-kwalukwe lanjant b'batterija shiha ta' alternattivi legali li tista' timmaniggja fl-ahjar interessi taghha". Intqal ukoll li "il-vjolenza m'hix permissibbli u mhix ser tigi avallata minn din il-Qorti". Il-Kunsill ta' TMPC jinnota kif din is-sentenza min-naha tal-Qrati Maltin qieghda ghall-ewwel darba taghraf bl-iswed fuq l-abjad ir-rwol doppju tal-gurnalist. F'dan ir-rwol, il-gurnalist ikun qed jaqdi d-dritt tal-fehma pubblika li tkun mgharrfa b'dak li jkun qed isehh fil-pajjiz, kif ukoll jaghmel possibbli l-iskrutinju ta' l-istituzzjonijiet tal-pajjiz min-naha tal-pubbliku. Din is-sentenza taghmilha cara, darba ghal dejjem, li l-vjolenza qatt m'hija gustifikata. Bhala ghodda kontra l-gurnalist hemm mezzi ohra, fosthom permezz tal-Qrati. F'dan il-kuntest, il-Kunsill ta' TMPC ifakkar fir-rwol tal-Kummissjoni ghall-Etika Gurnalistika, korp indipendenti mill-Press Club. Permezz ta' din il-Kummissjoni, wiehed jista' jaghmel ilment jekk ihoss li tkun inkisret l-Etika Gurnalistika b'kitba jew xandira minn xi gurnalist.
Prelease: 03/2003 KUNSILL GDID GHAL THE MALTA PRESS CLUB Thabbru l-karigi ufficcjali tal-Kunsill il-gdid ta' The Malta Press Club (TMPC). Ghat-tielet sena konsekuttiva, ic-Chairman ghall-2003 huwa Malcolm J. Naudi, waqt li Joe A. Vella huwa s-Segretarju Generali. Mario Schiavone se jkompli fil-kariga ta' Tezorier. It-tliet membri l-ohra tal-Kunsill huma Joe Mifsud li nhatar Segretarju Internazzjonali u Affarijiet Legali, filwaqt li Charlot Zahra ghandu r-rwol ta' Segretarju Edukazzjoni u Informazzjoni, u Mario Micallef huwa Segretarju Attivitajiet u Membri. Zahra u Micallef huma zewg membri godda tal-Kunsill. Ghall-ewwel darba sa mit-twaqqif ta' The Malta Press Club fl-1989, Carmel Bonello ma kkontestax ghall-Kunsill. Minkejja dan, huwa se jibqa' membru attiv tal-Press Club. Minhabba l-esperjenza li ghandu f'dan il-qasam, il-Kunsill talbu biex, fost l-ohrajn, jibqa' jikkordina l-Awards Annwali tal-Gurnalisti. Ic-Chairman Malcolm J. Naudi qal: "Kull ma jmur, il-hidma ta' The Malta Press Club qed tizdied. Illum il-Press Club huwa l-unika organizzazjoni li, bil-fatti, uriet li tiddefendi lill-gurnalist. Kien mertu tal-Press Club li f'dawn l-ahhar 13-il sena rajna anki titjib f'diversi oqsma tal-gurnalizmu." "Minhabba din iz-zieda fl-impenn minn dan il-grupp ta' gurnalisti voluntiera, inhass il-bzonn li l-membri tal-Kunsill jizdiedu bi tnejn ohra," qal is-sur Naudi. The Malta Press Club huwa membru-fundatur ta' l-Alliance of Independent Press Councils of Europe (AIPCE) li kienet twaqqfet fl-1998. L-ahhar laqgha annwali ta' l-AIPCE kienet organizzata f'Malta minn The Malta Press Club. It-TMPC huwa wkoll membru-fundatur ta' l-International Association of Press Clubs li twaqqfet fl-2002. Il-laqgha annwali tas-sena 2005 ta' l-IAPC se ssir f'Malta. The Malta Press Club kien strumentali biex twaqqfu kemm il-Kummissjoni ta' l-Etika Gurnalistika (1991), kif ukoll il-Fondazzjoni Tumas Fenench ghall-Edukazzjoni fil-Gurnalizmu (1999). It-TMPC qed jahdem ukoll biex f'Malta tinholoq
il-Journalist Culture Card. Bhalissa The Malta Press Club qed
jiffinalizza t-thejjijiet ghat-13-il edizzjoni ta' l-Awards
tal-Gurnalisti li se titnieda f'Marzu, 2003.
Date: 15.02.2003 IAPC urges protection of journalists in any Iraqi conflict THE International Association of Press Clubs last week urged that, in the event of hostilities in connection with the disarming of Iraq, all journalists covering the hostilities be afforded the maximum access, consistent with their security, as well as protection for their safety.
Malcolm J. Naudi, chairman of The Malta Press
Club, who was accompanied by Joe A. Vella, general secretary,
was elected vice-president of the IAPC. Malta is expected to
take over the presidency of the IAPC in 2005 and to host this
annual general assembly in Malta that year. The IAPC represents 25 leading press clubs from
around the world, representing thousands of journalist members.
TMPC is a founder member of the IAPC.
Data: 03.02.2003 THE MALTA PRESS CLUB JIKKUNDANNA IL-VJOLENZA The Malta Press Club (TMPC) jikkundanna minghajr riservi l-vjolenza fizika li twettqet fuq Dr Toni Abela, Dr Wenzu Mintoff u l-cameraman Darrin Parnis waqt meeting pubbliku li sar il-bierah il-Hadd 2 ta' Frar 2003 fuq il-Fosos, il-Floriana. The Malta Press Club jappella biex, f'dan Il-perjodu ta' kampanja politika Intensa, Il-pubbliku jirrispetta d-dover tal-gurnalist li jinvestiga u jhallieh jaghmel Id-doveri tieghu minghajr theddid jew vjolenza. The Malta Press Club dejjem Insista li l-gurnalisti ghandkom Ikollhom access shih u li l-vjolenza hija dejjem kundabbli, tigi minn fejn tigi.
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HP
are the sponsors of the brand new category of e-Journalism in
this year's Malta Journalism Awards, organised by The Malta
Press Club (TMPC). This new category has been added following
the recent proliferation of Maltese news-based websites, which
are becoming an increasingly important source of news for Maltese
citizens whether they are living in Malta, residing in another
country or temporarily abroad.
The
Business Software Alliance (BSA) announced today the launch
of the third annual BSA Press Competition. For the first time,
this competition is open both for journalists from Cyprus and
Malta.
The
details were announced today by TMPC chairman Malcolm J. Naudi,
general secretary Joe A Vella, and Malta Journalism Awards'
project director Carmel Bonello.
They
took part in a two-day seminar held at the Fortina Spa Resort
in Sliema, during which they experienced the state of the current
debate on EU accession in Malta and the different positions
about the matter. In this context, the journalists were briefed
by different Maltese speakers on the EU accession issue.
A Head of State is super partes and therefore
should not be involved in a political debate. Even if he himself
is brought into the picture, for some reason or another, whether
with reference to his past or to his present, silence is the
voice of responsibility. This is how I see my role as President."
Last Design Update 12th January 2002