February 3, 2012 Guests:  Jamaica50 Committee (Chairman, Planning Committee – Ian Wong; Secretariat Director – Robert Bryan)

Messrs. Wong and Bryan advised the media heads of events planned for the celebration of Jamaica’s 50th anniversary.  Functions were to be held throught the year.  They were interested in collaborating with the media to ensure that the events were publicized locally and abroad.

Ideas were exchanged and further discourse is expected.

On January 26, 2012 the Executive Committee of the Media Association Ja. Ltd. and media heads paid a courtesy call on Minister Sandrea Falconer, Minister Without Portfolio (Information), at the Office of the Prime Minister to welcome her to her new position and apprise her of issues that were still on the table.

October 7, 2011 Guest:   Jamaica Association for Community Cable Operators (JACCO)
                                    President, Mrs. Winsome Witter

Further to discussons held at with the  Broadcasting Commission on Digital Switchover, the JACCO was invited to attend the October Heads of Media meeting.  The discussions included, inter alia, the installation of A/B switch boxes to facilitate viewers with the option of watching free-to-air stations with or without cable connection. 

September 2, 2011 Guests:  Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All-Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAG)

J-FLAG discussed their concerns that the media hesitated to air their Public Service Announcement (Ms. Christine Straw, Miss Jamaica Universe 2004, having a conversation with her gay brother telling  him he was loved regardless of his sexual orientation).  The intention of the PSA was to increase tolerance of homosexuals in the society as many homosexuals were rejected by their families and communities and left homeless.

August 5, 2011

Guests:  G2K – Delano Seiveright, Colin Burgher, Marlon Morgan

The G2K apologized for their use of the term “go after” directed to media practitioners and explained that this was a misunderstanding.

Other points of discussion included:-

• Confidentiality and proper management of newsroom: The MAJ explained that each newsroom was held accountable for publishing.  Breaches by staff can subject them to disciplinary action.
• Introduction of complaints council:  The MAJ mentioned that the PAJ had revised a Code of Conduct.  Also, there are broadcasting regulations to which all media houses are subject. 
• Identifying political leaning of journalists.  The MAJ disagreed that this was necessary.

The MAJ advised they were always open for further dialogue