T hroughout world history, in democratic and non-democratic societies the press has been attacked and ostracised by those who would prefer not be confronted with the glaring lights of the free press.

As a result, conflict has always existed between good journalists who pursue their profession and those who would rather they looked the other way, when it comes to sensitive issues.

While this is nothing new, press freedom should never be taken for granted. In fact, any country large or small, that embarks on a scheme designed to dismantle the power of the free press, should be viewed with caution, as such moves usually carry a dictatorial tone that freedom loving people find unacceptable.

Anyone trained in journalism ethics and is committed to seeking truth, will also be aware that there are risks involved in uncovering facts that the powerful would rather be kept in the shadows away from public scrutiny.

Without the relentless probing by dedicated journalists, who often place their lives on the line, much of the world's horrors would probably go undetected, with indescribable suffering taking place under a cloak of secrecy.

In other words, without the free press leaders of any nation can crush opposition without having to explain their activities to anyone.

A healthy society with good cherished values should not only welcome the press but should do everything possible to protect it.

A body formed to oversee journalism standards in Bermuda is a positive move, provided it remains detached from Government involvement. For credibility, it is paramount that persons selected to serve in such a capacity be guided by journalism principles only.

In a small society, it is not easy to find people who are not seen as pro this or that, especially on matters with political tones. Yet we as Bermudians need to be more open and objective before reaching conclusions, even when the press is involved.

As long as there are those who criticise the press for simply doing its job, there will be a need to protect what the press stands for. The free press itself would be first admit that things do not go right every time. However, because one or two cars break down it should never be a reason to take all cars off the road.

Trying to gather facts to inform the public will never be easy, since journalists are not usually welcomed by some who would rather operate without having to answer to the press, even though the press is charged with informing the public on matters of importance.

Trying to reflect on the current press freedom issue could cause one to ask who would fear the press the most? A similar question could be put in reference to the Police and their role in maintaining law and order. The answers seem fairly straight forward. Fear of the press might indicate that there is something to hide. People engaged in illegal activity are more likely to have a negative view of Police and their responsibilities.

That said, it seems baffling how any attempt could be launched to shackle the free press to a point where important matters could be kept from the public eye for reasons that might contain political undertones.

Over the years many journalists have given their lives around the world in the interest of exposing truth. This not a time to sit back and allow the press to be stifled and weakened. It is also important to keep emotions out of evaluation of the free press.

Our daily publication, The Royal Gazette, has served and continues to serve Bermuda well, despite many ups and downs, which is a part of daily reporting.

One can only hope legislators will think calmly and with reason in debating a proposed media bill that might not be in the best interest of press freedom. No matter how one might feel about our free press, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

The free press must and should remain free, or freedom itself will be in jeopardy.