Endorsements and Public Funding

In a democratic society, the role of the press is fundamental: to inform educate, and provide diverse viewpoints.

Government-subsidized newspapers, funded in part by taxpayer dollars, carry an additional responsibility to uphold impartiality and foster trust among the public.

The endorsement of political candidates by these newspapers threatens to undermine this crucial objectivity. When a newspaper receives government support, it is crucial that its editorial stance remain unbiased to avoid any appearance of governmental influence or favouritism. Endorsing a candidate, regardless of their affiliation, could erode public confidence in the paper’s independence and suggest that government funds are being used to sway political outcomes.

Moreover, endorsements from government-subsidized outlets can create an uneven playing field in political campaigns. Candidates with access to significant resources may benefit disproportionately if they receive the backing of influential, publicly funded newspapers, thereby disadvantaging others who lack similar support.

To preserve the integrity of our democratic processes and ensure that all voices and perspectives are fairly represented, it is essential that government-subsidized newspapers maintain a neutral stance during elections. This commitment to impartiality helps uphold the foundational principles of democracy and ensures that public trust in the media is not compromised. 

Darryl Strachan, Prince Edward County

Closed Minds at Council 

I attended the September 10th council meeting at Shire Hall as a concerned Picton resident. I wanted to hear what our local residents thought about the pending settlement with Picton Terminals, and I also wanted to hear from councillors why they feel that the Terms of Settlement would be a good deal for the County.

There were four deputations that addressed Council that evening, and other residents who had questions or comments for Council. These local residents put in a huge amount of work preparing their deputations, made sure their facts were correct, and offered alternatives for Council to consider. Many of them asked direct questions, looking for engagement about why Council would consider the terms of the agreement.

I, for one, was absolutely disappointed and ashamed of the councillors that evening. They all looked completely uninterested in what was being said. Not one member addressed any of the questions asked of them, and none asked questions of the deputants. The Mayor appeared to be more interested in keeping time than facilitating discussion, and reminded our locals when they had 10 seconds left in their deputations. 

There was a large turnout of  residents that night, people who want answers from Council on the controversial issues that affect our future. They spent countless hours putting together their presentations, and Council should have the decency to treat them with respect and answer the questions asked of them, rather than keeping their deliberations behind closed doors.

We elected you to be transparent, so please do your jobs.

Liz Grant, Picton

A Beautiful Legacy

Re: A Legacy Lighthouse (18 September). Suzanne Pasternak was a remarkable lady.  I cannot claim that she was a close personal friend, but I knew her well for some 25 years. At the turn of the last century, the charity that I am proud to be associated with put together some $6000 to assist with the first presentation of her opera, “Minerva,” at The Regent Theatre here in the County.  

I also supplied my old ship’s bell and foghorn — Suzanne was ecstatic with the foghorn; it was perfectly in tune with her music.

Suzanne was the guest speaker at the Mariners’ Service at South Bay on Sunday 8 August 2004. Her memories, work and music will be remembered by all those who were present.

We collaborated on a number of other projects. One that stands out was when I asked her to write about Ray McIntosh, a local fisherman and outstanding boatbuilder. I published her article in our Masthead, Vol. 7, No. 1. She was deeply conscious of County heritage. Although born elsewhere she became an integral part of the South Bay community and will always be remembered for that.

Again, a remarkable lady — I will not be the only one in the County to miss her friendship, exuberance, personality, talents — and above all, her deeply held respect of our County’s traditions.

Paul Adamthwaite, Chair, Naval Marine Archive, Picton