Volume 2 - Management Services
Chapter 1 - External Relations

Policy 1.1 - News Media Relations

Effective Date: 01-Apr-93
Responsible Branch: Communications Branch

Management Services Volume Table of Contents | Amendment Log

Scope

This policy statement establishes guidelines for Ministry staff at all levels in providing the news media with information best suited to the needs of the media and their audiences.

Policy

The Ministry will release information to the news media to aid in public awareness and understanding of either the province's forest and range resources or the policies and programs of the Ministry.

Requests for Information

The Ministry will respond fully, accurately, and promptly to requests for information.

Any Ministry staff member who has relevant training and current work experience in the subject under discussion may respond to questions from the news media.

Responses must be limited to statements of fact and interpretation of Ministry policy. Personal opinions must be avoided.

Ministry staff will consult their supervisor if a request for information is:

  • beyond the individual's area of competence
  • beyond the individual's level of authority
  • about a sensitive or potentially contentious issue

A Branch Director or Regional or District Manager may direct that certain enquiries be handled by other specified spokespersons.

Any requests for information may be referred to the Director, Public Affairs Branch, when the person receiving the enquiry is uncertain as to how to respond.

Requests for information received by the Public Affairs Branch may be referred to other sources for reply when this is most expedient.

The Director, Public Affairs Branch will provide instruction and guidance in techniques for effective communication with the media to ensure that accurate information is provided to the media and that the position of the Ministry is properly presented.

News Releases

A news release is information issued on Government news release letterhead or identified as a news release from the Ministry of Forests. All Ministry news releases must be approved by the Director, Public Affairs Branch, the Minister's office, and the Government Communications Office.

References

  • No applicable references.