"The broadcast media, in particular television, plays a very important role in providing news and information.
"The media is considered the fourth estate which rests on the idea that the media's function is to act as a guardian of the public interest and as a watchdog.
"The fourth estate is an important component of the checks and balances that form part of a modern democracy such as ours. Government embraces the important role the media plays in providing information, which is crucial especially at this important juncture in the life of our country Sint Maarten.
"Journalists have a responsibility to the community to report the facts, due to the essential role that they play where the dissemination of information is concerned.
"The influence of the media can lead members of the community to either make an informed decision about an issue, or an uninformed opinion based on incorrect information. Hence, the responsibility of the media to remain a credible source of news and information.
"Television can be a tremendous source as it educates the community and upholds freedom of information. On this past World Television Day, I would like to congratulate all those who work in the broadcast/television media, including those in the Department of Communications, and wish them much success. Continue to keep up the good work," Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams told the Government Information Service (GIS).
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly proclaimed 21 November as World Television Day in recognition of the increasing impact television has on decision-making by alerting local and world attention to conflicts and threats to peace and security and its potential role in sharpening the focus on other major issues, including economic and social issues.
On 21 and 22 November 1996, the UN held the first World Television Forum, where leading media figures met under the auspices of the United Nations to discuss the growing significance of television in today's changing world and to consider how they might enhance their mutual cooperation.
That is why the General Assembly decided to proclaim 21 November as World Television Day – to commemorate the date on which the first World Television Forum was held.
The Department of Communications (GIS) falls under the Ministry of General Affairs which falls under the political responsibility of the Prime Minister.
