MAJ wants changes to defamation law

The Media Association Jamaica (MAJ) is again vowing to "vigorously" push for changes to the new Defamation Act that would address what it believes are inadequacies in the legislation.

In a statement yesterday marking World Press Freedom Day, the MAJ lauded the abolition of criminal libel and other changes made in the act, but said it remain concerned that the legislation does not go far enough to enable the pursuit of greater accountability among public officials and better equip the media to tackle corruption.

"We renew our commitment to vigorously pursue the changes necessary to accomplish this goal," the MAJ said through its chairman Christopher Barnes.

The Defamation Act, which was passed in Parliament late last year, repealed the Libel and Slander Act of 1851 and the Defamation Act of 1961.

Proposed changes could cause fallout

Barnes also reiterated that the MAJ remains concerned that recommended changes in government policy as well as proposed legislative and regulatory changes governing the electronic media could trigger negative fallout for traditional media.

In addition, he said the harsh economic climate offers little accommodation for these proposed changes.

"Unfortunately, these changes, if implemented now and in the current form, threaten the viability of the industry," Barnes reasoned.

Despite this, he said the MAJ encourages modern, practical and effective legislation and regulation, which advances the industry and provides a level playing field for both traditional and non-traditional media.

The MAJ chairman lauded Jamaica's high ranking on the 2014 World Press Freedom Index (17th place) and promised that the association will continue to push for greater media rights and access to information while committing to responsible self-regulation.