The new Publisher of The Fiji Times, Dallas Swinstead said he will ensure that he keeps the channels of communication open with the government and the people of Fiji whenever any issues arise in relation to the newspaper.
Speaking to Radio Australia, Swinstead said he never had any reservations to come to Fiji and take up the job and actually agreed to take up the post within seconds after he was asked by the new Chairman of The Fiji Times, Mahendra Patel.
Swinstead said people need to understand that Fiji is a developing country and has it's own issues to deal with however he said he sees the job as a challenge.
He also said that by nature, he clearly understands what freedom of speech means.
Swinstead also said he knows that there is no point in getting a newspaper shut down.
He said there are ways to deal with it and he is a good mediator and facilitator.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
