In his letter Freedom of Information, (TMID, 26 July) Mr C. Galea from San Gwann is free to denigrate the Institute of Maltese Journalists for welcoming the publication of a White Paper on the Freedom of Information Act.

The fact remains that the publication of the White Paper is a step in the right direction.

However, the IGM would like to state that the paragraph quoted by Mr Galea was a preliminary statement and our definite position on the White Paper will be made public after the council analyses the White Paper in its final format.

The institute is proud of having contributed to the drafting of the White Paper and will continue to follow the issue with the help of its consultants – the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative – to see that the spirit of the White Paper is translated into the law when it is enacted.

The IGM will also be seeking all the necessary safeguards so that the interpretation of the letter of the law will not infringe upon the spirit of greater access.

Joe A. Vella

Secretary IGM