CONFLICT OF INTEREST IN MEDIA
When we talk about conflicts of interest in journalism, it can be real, potential or perceived. Some rules are usually simple. They are framed according to the principle that audiences are supposed to know if a reporter, presenter or editor can be influenced by any commercial relationship with another individual. If the protocols of the disclosure are not met, it leads to non-employment. The recent sacking of Canadian journalists highlights the difficulties media employees face in navigating the tricky terrain of conflicts of interest. Earlier this month, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) dismissed the host of its premiere television political show Power & Politics, Evan Solomon, for allegedly using his journalist’s position to broker sales for an art dealer friend. Solomon’s sacking followed a Toronto Star newspaper report on the journalist’s contract with an art dealer, Bruce Bailey. Solomon has admitted he received commissions, said to total around CAD$300,000, for h