MATT: Too many attacks on journalists

THE MEDIA Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) has expressed concern about the frequency of attacks on media personnel within recent times. In a statement issued in the aftermath of an attack on TT cameraman Phil Britton on Monday, MATT said officials were awaiting the outcome of the investigation into that incident and were confident it would be fair and unbiased. According to the statement, Britton reported that he was kicked and cursed and his camera was destroyed by a young woman outside the Siparia Magistrates’ Court. “Police officers who witnessed the incident are reported to have done nothing to protect Mr Britton,” MATT said.

“Such action on the part of the young woman is illegal and MATT wishes to condemn it in the strongest possible language. “Additionally, we are calling on the police to protect all citizens, including journalists and photojournalists — who sometimes seem to draw the ire of members of the public for simply doing their jobs. “MATT also views with tremendous concern the frequency within recent times of attacks on media personnel who are engaged in the process of news gathering. Too often photojournalists are forced to put up with overzealous individuals who, without any justification, attempt to intimidate and humiliate them.” The group pointed out that journalists have “an unfettered right to film, photograph, interview and speak to anyone in or from a public place” and must be allowed to gather news without the threat of harassment.