“Government must be sensitive to Mainstream Media roles and responsibilities before drafting a National Media Development Policy.” These were the comments made by Deputy Governor of New Ireland Province Sammy Missen after sighting a draft copy of the National Media Development Policy which has been circulating for the public to see. Speaking on behalf of the New Ireland Government, he noted that the Department of Digital Transformation, Media and Communication would be overseeing  monitoring and evaluation of the media industry through regular data collection and monitoring media content. He said, “While it was important for the Media is to be responsible in its reporting, it should not be made to feel restricted or oppressed and forced to fit into a mold created by the government.” “The mainstream media, especially news organisations are already self-regulating and have code of ethics for Journalists to follow.” “If there is a greater time for the Media to be more vibrant and speak out about the state of the country, that time is NOW,” said Missen. He said the role of the Media as the fourth estate in a democracy should not be undermined and must bear equal standing as the Executive arm, Legislative and Judiciary. “Media being the fourth Estate acts as a Watchdog over our Constitution. It plays a crucial role in ensuring there are checks and balances in all areas of society. When we formed this country, the media was with us from day one. Thanks to institutions like the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) a thousand tribes united to the beat of one drum, One song, to form one nation, one country,” said Missen. He further added that it does not make sense that an institution that is the mouthpiece of the Government and covers almost all Government programs and events should be stripped off of funding and still be expected to carry out its expected roles and responsibilities. “If anything, mainstream media should be left alone and more focus put into regulating the general distribution of information on social media sites and applications.” “More awareness and education is needed for ordinary Papua New Guineans who are not familiar with the ethics and consequences using such social media platforms for improper conduct or malicious reasons.” The New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan had fallen victim to the malicious use of social media where persons with ill intent had intentionally released false information about him, leading to undue distress to his family, his supporters and the general public. Missen further urged the Government to direct its attention to other areas like the Office of Censorship which is currently governed by an outdated Act 1989, that does not regulate the internet and other forms of modern technology incl