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.