Long live free speech

Byron Shire Echo, April 18, 2000
by Brando Tobin

I write in support of The Echo maintaining the discussion of the daily realities of the Miracle Centre in Byron Bay.

Threats of defamation often create a 'chilling' effect in the media, with journalists not pursuing stories to their limits for fear of being sued. Thus the rich and powerful can use defamation as a weapon to silence discussion without ever having to go to court. The Echo should not allow itself to be brow-beaten by defamation threats that lack legal justification.

Long live free speech! Long live The Echo!