ISLAMABAD
\nFederal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has reaffirmed the government\u2019s resolve to strengthen the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA), safeguard journalists\u2019 jobs, and improve working conditions across the media industry.
\nSpeaking at the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected office-bearers of the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA), Tarar underscored that tackling journalists\u2019 concerns is a foremost priority, pledging full support on issues of unemployment, job creation, professional challenges, and vowing concrete measures shaped by joint proposals to address them.
\nTarar praised parliamentary reporters as the \u201cunsung heroes\u201d of democracy. He pledged impartial support for all journalist bodies and cautioned against unjust layoffs in the media sector. The Minister underscored the pivotal role of journalists in amplifying Parliament\u2019s voice to the public, noting their contribution was especially vital during times when he served in the opposition.
\nHe praised parliamentary reporters for ensuring that the proceedings of the House reached beyond its walls, even amid challenging political climates. Acknowledging the enduring bond between Parliament and the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA), he remarked, \u201cWe have always considered every reporter and every bureau as part of us.\u201d
\nTarar praised PRA for its decades-long tradition of unity, professionalism and strong parliamentary culture, saying the Association enjoyed a unique distinction; \u201cWhen PRA stages a walkout, it receives the same respect and protocol as any member of the House. This reflects its strength and the value placed on journalists within parliamentary traditions.\u201d
\nThe Minister said PRA remained one of the most effective forums for addressing journalistic issues, often resolving matters within hours or days due to its strong institutional standing. \u201cPRA is a vital component of parliamentary democracy. It is an integral part of the parliamentary process,\u201d he said, congratulating all newly elected office-bearers.
\nTarar said the Ministry of Information would continue close coordination with all journalist bodies, including PFUJ, NPC, RIUJ and others. He said that while regulatory forums existed for print and electronic media, digital media had lacked a dedicated platform. \u201cI took it upon myself to address this gap, and we have now facilitated placements for many individuals. Work for the remaining journalists is also underway,\u201d he added.
\nHe assured that his office remained fully accessible: \u201cAs custodian of this journalistic sector, I consider myself answerable to you. The doors of the Ministry of Information will always remain open.\u201d
\nExpressing deep concern over growing job insecurity in the media industry, Tarar urged journalist bodies to compile a list of reporters and media workers recently laid off without justification. He said the government could not accept a widening divide between media houses and their employees. This is a dangerous trend.
\nHe said digital expansion could not be used as an excuse for downsizing. He argued that since most channels and newspapers now operated monetised digital platforms, \u201cdownsizing on the pretext of shrinking space\u201d was not justifiable.
\nThe Minister paid tribute to reporters who spend long hours covering committees, debates, legislation and amendments\u2014often from morning till late night. \u201cThe public sees only a live telecast, but behind that is the hard work of the reporter holding the mic or the journalist crafting each line with accuracy,\u201d he said. \u2014 DNA<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
ISLAMABAD Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has reaffirmed the government\u2019s resolve to strengthen the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA), safeguard journalists\u2019 jobs, and improve working conditions across the media industry. Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected office-bearers of the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA), Tarar underscored that tackling journalists\u2019 concerns is […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-517973","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","6":"category-top-news"},"yoast_head":"\n