“For the first time, the principle that all

information held by the Government can be made public unless there is a reasonable need to withhold that information is being introduced, thus reversing the current position of general secrecy.”

So says the Institute of Maltese Journalists in welcoming the publication of a white paper outlining the government proposals for a Freedom of Information Act. That little bit tells all about the state of journalism in Malta.

For the so-called institute to welcome such a weak intention is incredible. It shows what kind of “journalists” we have. They don’t seem to see beyond their noses.

Who is to decide what is a “reasonable need”? Would it be reasonable to withhold information if, say, a minister would be damaged politically by the release of such information? Or if that information were personal and a minister opposed its release? Why must it be only “reasonable”. Can’t they make it an over-riding need, or a need in the national interest? Will there be anyone who is independent to judge whether information should be released or not?

I hope it won’t be any of the “journalists”we have.

C. Galea,

San Gwann.