Hon Speaker, in the interview I was answering questions relating to the ANC's proposed investigation into the Media Appeals Tribunal. What were the reasons and what informed the ANC? The point we are making is that the manner in which the media has been reporting over the years seems to be overstepping the boundaries that would guide it in terms of the freedom of the media. There seemed to be no distinction between respect for the dignity of other people and the manner in which they were reporting. Therefore, we are saying that when you see things happening in the media, you will agree with me that, particularly in the recent past, since the debate, there have been more apologies from the media. [Applause.]
The argument that we are putting across is that when the media reports about individuals or citizens, you will see huge headlines and a picture of the person. When they discover that in fact their report was erroneous, they agree to retract, but they don't give it equal weight. Their apology will be hidden somewhere in a little column. That is not fair to an individual whose country has been told that this person did this or that, and then the media discovers that they made a mistake. They don't project the issue at the same level. That is why we are saying it is unfair.
Sometimes, when you take the matter to the Ombudsman, he will ask the media to apologise. But the damage done could be great, and for that you have no recourse. Therefore, you need to appeal. You mustn't just have to take the matter as it happened. You need to deal with it as if you are not satisfied. You are a citizen and you have no recourse! There must be a way to appeal. We must establish this tribunal. It does not infringe on the freedom of the press, but it deals with the human rights of all citizens. Someone can feel that they've indeed been hurt and that what is being said about them - it could be not just an individual, but your family or relatives - is erroneous. But then, when the media realises that it made a mistake, the response can be absolutely meaningless.
With regard to the existing media things - and this is for longer than 16 years now - we do need to investigate the possibility - and that's according to the resolution - of establishing a Media Appeals Tribunal to provide recourse should someone feel dissatisfied. That's the point we are making. Thank you. [Applause.]