THE Media Association of Jamaica (MAJ) has rapped residents of Slipe, St Elizabeth and insisted on compensation for a TV cameraman, for their violent assault on him as he covered an anti-police demonstration that flowed from the death of a resident who, lawmen said, shot at them first.

But more fundamentally, the media bosses have suggested that it is time to back away from full coverage of demonstrations and mob scenes, but coached the statement as a point needing broad debate.

Accusing TVJ videographer Rodney Longmore of police collusion, a mob beat and chopped him, destroyed his camera and damaged the windshield and tyres of his car during the Thursday morning demonstration.

In a statement, the MAJ said it strongly condemned the attack, which it characterised as an assault on press freedom, and urged journalists to remain steadfast in covering the news.

“We in the MAJ also urge media practitioners not to be daunted by this attack, but we, along with the rest of the society, must now review how and in what context giving coverage and voice to these mobs must be undertaken, and at what cost,” said an MAJ statement issued after a meeting in Kingston Friday.

“We acknowledge our role as watchdogs of the public interest without fear or favour, but the society must decide if it will sit by and allow rogue elements to attack media workers carrying out their duties, as these actions constitute a frontal assault on press freedom.”

Longmore was hit several times on the head with a heavy object, sustained an 18-inch slash in his back and received ankle injuries.

“The attack on the videographer is yet another example of the breakdown in law and order and the vigilante justice which has become far too prevalent in the society,” said the MAJ statement.

The community, said the media bosses, should ensure that Longmore is compensated for his injuries, ensure that his vehicle is repaired, and his camera replaced.

But they also want decisive action from the police.

“We expect that the police will be able to apprehend those responsible for the attack on Mr Longmore and that they will have their day in court,” said the MAJ.

News teams, it said, have a right to do their jobs without threat of harm.