A new press office has been commissioned for the Parliamentary Press Corps (PPC) to enhance the work of the media in the House.
The office boasts of new computers, internet connectivity and other facilities to provide the right atmosphere for media persons to discharge their duties.
Speaker of Parliament Mr Alban S.K. Bagbin who commissioned the office expressed fervent hope members of the Parliamentary Press Corps (PPC) will make optimum use of the facilities in the new Press Centre.
Pressmen in Parliament over the years, he said, have worked tirelessly and creditably to disseminate speedy and accurate information from Parliament as an institution to the general public.
He said, “It has always been my hope that the Press Corps work under a more conducive atmosphere due to the enormous efforts you put into your work and your critical role as a link between Parliament and the citizenry.
“I am persuaded that a good working environment will enhance your professionalism and also improve upon your effectiveness.”
He charged members of the Corps to utilise the computers for timely reportage and undertake ample research for their stories.
“Above all, there is a wealth of knowledge from the members and staff. Do not be shy to approach these persons for additional information on issues that may not be clear to you. I wish you great success with your reports on Parliament,” he said.
Deputy Minority leader James Klutse who represented the Minority urged the Corps to ensure the new Centre and the facilities reflect in the dissemination of information to the public.
“Feed Ghanaians with accurate information about Parliament to ensure Ghana’s democracy becomes stronger,” he said.
The Deputy leader lamented the current turmoil in the media landscape and expressed worry the culture of silence is gradually coming back long after the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law.
Attacks on the media and journalists, he said, does not bode well for the image of the country and urged the government to ensure the safety of journalists and their work.
Second Deputy Majority Whip and MP for Tolon, Habib Iddrisu, in his remarks indicated the media has oversight over Parliament just as Parliament has oversight of the executive.
The media, he said, needs to play its watchdog role to guarantee the safety of the Ghanaian society but this can only happen with accurate reportage.
He assured that as the political party that repealed the Criminal Libel Law, the Akufo-Addo-led NPP government does not take interest in persecuting the media or journalists.
Vice Dean of the PPC, Stephen Odoi-Larbi, who presented the vote of thanks thanked Almighty God for finally blessing the Corps with the new office.
He extended profound gratitude to Speaker Bagbin, Speaker of the 7th Parliament, Prof. Aaron Michael Oquaye, Leadership of the House, the Clerk-to-Parliament and former Deans of the PPC, Andrew Edwin Arthur and Nana Agyemang Birikorang, for the diverse roles they all played in getting the office space.
