Leader of the Opposition: a Moderate Road has been Found

Moses ‘Shyne’ Barrow

The Leader of the Opposition says he believes the amendments to the Defamation Bill and the suggestions given today by those most affected in the media will provide a balance between protecting reputations and guaranteeing free speech.

Moses ‘Shyne’ Barrow, Leader of the Opposition, Defamation Bill Amendment Committee

“I think it has to strike a balance. I do agree with Minister Fonseca, it is more balance now. Whereas before it was more in favor of the reputation of person, I don’t believe that we should attack the media. But I do believe that we all have to be responsible. Those people putting up those comments have to be responsible. I do believe we have found a moderate road with the recommendation that people be given time to remove those comments and I think that would solve it. I certainly believe in balance. I don’t believe it should be more protection of reputation and less of freedom of expression, but with freedom of expression comes responsibility  so you can’t just slam the people who defame, so that is my position.”