Media’s role vital, says Costello

THE media, in all forms, has a major role in Papua New Guinea’s development, according to minister counsellor for AusAID in PNG, Bill Costello.
Mr Costello told media personnel, stakeholders and development partner representatives at the 3rd Media Council of PNG Media Awards 2009 in Port Moresby that a strong, dynamic and vibrant media has a major role to play in PNG’s development.
He said compared with many developing nations around the world, PNG was extremely fortunate to have such a robust media industry that could act as a watchdog and agenda-setter for developments in the country.
“There are many reasons for this, not least of which are, an active media council, dynamic media organisations, training institutes and professional associations, and many talented and motivated individuals putting pen to paper, literally and figuratively, every day,” Mr Costello said.
“Your efforts combine to ensure that questions are asked and answers are there for the people of PNG to hear, read and see.
“While PNG has changed a lot since 1975, I think current events promise to do more to change and shape the future of PNG than at any time in its post-independence history,” he added.
One important area which Mr Costello highlighted was the media’s coverage on HIV/AIDS.
He assured that the Australian government would continue to support the PNG media to address developmental issues.