Editorial 21/07/2002

Why does Jose want stiffer penalties?

Labour MP Jose Herrera said in parliament this week that the figure of Lm5,000 awarded in libel cases was far too small. His statement was reported without any comment by some newspapers. In our view his suggestion is scandalous to say the least.

Newspapers and the media are already far too reserved and restricted in their investigative probes.

The reasons behind Dr Herrera’s drive are understandable. His late father a judge was for some time the focus of much media attention in relation to corruption investigations after a number of serious allegations.

Dr Herrera obviously considers part of the media especially those who do not reproduce his opinions with a portrait of him sitting in a black leather executive chair as the scum of the earth.

We use the word ‘part’ with abundant reason.

The Maltese media in general does not investigate politicians and other high profile individuals. It avoids them and it will only carry a story if it can support the text it carries with a court ruling. This newspaper purports to being independent and takes a different line.

Dr Herrera is counsel to a number of cases against this newspaper. Understandably it his job to defend his clients, but it is also our prerogative to appreciate his choice of clients and it is our job to uncover the facts and deliver the news to our readers.

A case in point, is the front page story we carry in today’s issue, which involves a Labour MP, Prof. Louis Buhagiar, who has commenced libel proceedings against this newspaper over a story regarding reports of overcharging patients.

His lawyer is none other than Dr Jose Herrera, another Member of Parliament. Both have somehow found themselves in the Malta Labour Party, strangely represented by more bohemians and ‘rich’ folk than one could care to fondle.

The particular story we have carried and the stories that will follow are all based on facts. We have not even entertained the ‘issue’ of fair comment.

And yet, Dr Herrera who rocketed into politics not out of charisma or visionary politics, chooses to deride the media and call for harsher penalities when it comes to libel cases.

We have a meek media, in Malta, one where newspaper directors, politicians and businessmen place and put pressure on the editors and their journalists.

Dr Herrera’s comments should be castigated. The vast majority of politicians on both sides of the house, should continue to be scrutinised in the press for their interests, business contacts and inconsistencies.

This does not mean that journalists and editors should not be held responsible for their actions. If the leader of this column chooses for argument sake to smoke a joint of cannabis in full view of the public to prove a point about decriminalisation of soft drugs, he should not be too surprised if prosecuted.

As journalists we have responsibility.

There will be times when we will lose libel cases, and other times, as was the case with Anglu Farrugia when we will defeat such legal proceedings.

But we will not be gagged and attempts at making our job more difficult should be met with a very strong reaction.

Perhaps, the Press Club could make a note.