5 May 1999

Alert

Journalist suspended in Madeira


Incident details

Ricardo Chega

journalist(s)

other


(IFJ/IFEX) - The IFJ is disturbed by the suspension of Ricardo Chega from
"Jornal
da Madeira".




According to IFJ's information, Chega, who is President of the regional
branch of the Sindicato dos Jornalistas, has been suspended, pending the
outcome of an inquiry, after he made comments on the situation of the press
in Madeira, in an interview for "Diario de Noticias da Madeira". The
interview was given in his capacity as a union leader.


The IFJ is concerned that Chega has been put under investigation solely for
expressing opinions on the links between funding and independence in
newspapers and other matters relevant to the profession.

Recommended Action


Send appeals to authorities:

  • stating that, in your opinion, the comments were a legitimate part of
    his
    trade union role and that it is unacceptable for a union activist to be
    penalised for representing his members
  • stating that you consider this action by the "Jornal da Madeira" to be
    an
    attack on freedom of expression and freedom of association
  • urging them to ensure that Chega is reinstated forthwith




    Appeals To



    Alberto Joao Jardim
    President of the Regional Government of Madeira
    c/o Ministerio da Administracao Interna
    Praca do Comercio
    1100 Lisbon
    Portugal

    Alberto Arons de Carvalho
    Secretary of State for Social Communication






    Please copy appeals to the source if possible.




    • Source

    International Federation of Journalists
    International Press Centre, Residence Palace
    Bloc C, second floor, Rue de la Loi, 155
    1040 Brussels
    Belgium
    Fax:+32 2 2352219

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