SASHA & JERRY 13 (2)

Some more comments on the state of the media.

"Mike, while I take your points on the issue of the disrespectful salaries paid to journalists in Trinidad, you must be made aware of the reality that there are some great veteran journalists that are paid pittance year after year for their breaking and lead stories more so in the print industry.

"It boggles my mind that they are still committed to longevity in the industry and serve as the pillars that have added to the little esteem left in the media here. The question of novices being hired over experience is a sign that that is not about to change anytime soon.

"I believe if the salaries are encouraging, even some of the people in the industry would up their standards. Granted that's not excuse for getting egg on your face for a poor showing.

"At minimum, authentic Senior reporters in the industry should be taking home at least TT$20,000 a month.
By authentic, I mean those who have been through the rigours of journalism over a number of years, at least 10 years -- and not those who earn Senior reporter status just for having a degree or because there was a lack of Senior reporters in such a News Room."

"PW"