” ……I’m not sure it’s that helpful because if the names of victims aren’t made public then it’s really neighbourhood gossip and social media that might fill in some erroneous information and I don’t think that’s really what the public needs”…
New RCMP privacy (publication of names) policy affects small communities the most
In small communities where tragedies tend to have the most impact, people are trying to figure out what’s at stake.
Community newspapers arguably have the most to lose.
“While I do understand that privacy laws have to be followed, I’m not sure it’s that helpful because if the names of victims aren’t made public then it’s really neighbourhood gossip and social media that might fill in some erroneous information and I don’t think that’s really what the public needs at a time like this,” said Dave Stephens, news director at Lighthouse Now.
“They need to know who has been involved, what family members might need their support and it’s unfortunate that information isn’t made available in a timely manner.”
The privacy act has been in place for some time and only in recent months was the privacy act used as the excuse for not releasing names.
Source: CBC
Pat Hampson. says
There are families who do not wish to have their personal information released. In fact there are individuals who have launched suits claiming invasion of privacy. That is the reason the RCMP or any Government body do not release private information. Relatives and family friends are the people most able to request assistance on behalf of the bereaved.
Gossip is gossip and the perpetrators are the ones who require a wake-up call; sensationalism on social media has become a pastime.