An ACM umbrella for Caribbean sport journalists

There was general agreement on the importance of moving forward as a grouping. The effort is being spear-headed by Grenadian journalist and former ACM executive member, Michael Bascombe.

The most recent experiences at the 2013 Junior CARIFTA Games in the Bahamas have led to the realisation that a single voice is needed, through which journalists could be represented.

The participants, which included representatives from the Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, Grenada, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, highlighted a number of issues which they would like to be addressed and agreed for an interim committee to meet with North America, Central America and Caribbean Athletic Associations (NACAC) to outline some of these concerns.

Also attending was Mr Yannis Nikolaou, Communications Manager, IAAF Communications Department while a statement was read from Mr Victor Lopez, the President of NACAC, who was absent due to Jury of Appeal duties at the IAAF World Championships on Wednesday.

Among some of the issues discussed:

1. A standardised accreditation system. The possibility of a one-line accreditation process valid for the year;

2. Media Guidelines for national federations hosting track and field meets including the inclusion of media services in future contracts with LOCs;

3. Provision of media services for meets including working area, free internet access, identification of hotels, rates, transportation etc.

4. Sport Journalists’ workshops by NACAC to assist the organisation in its growth and development;

The journalists also agreed that the committee will hold briefs with Mr Lopez, as well as Anna Legnani, Deputy Director, IAAF Communications Department and the President of the AIPS, Gianni Merlo, before the end of the Championships.

The journalists extended appreciation to the IAAF for its assistance to journalists through the Media Development Project.