The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
DCT employees given recognition as key workers by Scottish Government
Fiona Hyslop says publishers playing a ‘vital role’
The importance of newspapers in ensuring the public is supplied with reliable information during the coronavirus crisis has been officially recognised by the Scottish Government.
Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said publishers will play a “vital role” and confirmed local authorities and the police would allow reporters, photographers, delivery drivers and print plant staff to go about their work during lockdown.
In a letter to Scottish Newspaper Society director John McLellan, she said:
“In these challenging circumstances, having access to reliable information is a key part of a functioning society and public confidence.
“I agree that the news publishing sector plays a vital role in this. Your support and responsiveness to the situation are deeply appreciated.
“I would like to assure you that we fully expect all public authorities to allow journalists and key print media staff to have the freedom of movement they require to do their important work.
“I have asked my officials to ensure that this is communicated to Police Scotland and the chief constable has highlighted that they will take a proportionate response.”
The move means The Courier can continue to be delivered to supermarkets, garages and corner shops. Our home news delivery scheme will also continue as normal.
SNS director John McLellan said: “We are grateful to the Scottish Government for this recognition of our role in this crisis and we know people are turning to trusted news brands in greater numbers than before to access reliable information.
“Local news organisations in particular can run stories and provide detailed information at a level that most broadcasters find difficult.
“With advertising disappearing because of the widespread closure of business deemed to be non-essential, circulation revenue is crucial in ensuring that news brands are not only there to help people through an emergency, but still exist to assist with the recovery, whenever that may be.”