Task 3.2. The case (Part 1)

I. THE STORY

The following story takes place in the country of Freedonia, and mainly in Palisades, the capital.

Over the past decade, Freedonians have elected a series of governments that have promised economic and democratic reforms. But the efforts to build a sound base for sustainable socioeconomic development and prosperity have been hampered by corruption and domestic instability.

Falling export revenues, poor harvests, and mismanagement in the civil service have worsened Freedonia's economic and social problems. During the past two years, however, a process of democratization has gained momentum, catching the attention and earning the appreciation of foreign donors.

Multiparty elections last year led to the formation of a coalition government, which apparently enjoys the backing of the business elite. The government, led by the Liberal Party of Freedonia (LPF), has launched an economic reform program aimed at attracting foreign investors and promoting economic growth.

The government's reform efforts have received strong criticism from the main opposition party in Parliament, the Progress Party of Freedonia (PPF). The PPF advocates a more equal distribution of resources and protection of the rights of the poor and underprivileged.

Under the previous regime, all of Freedonia's newspapers were subservient mouthpieces of those in power. Journalists were not permitted to challenge authorities or politicians in the ruling party. When they did, they risked being jailed, tortured, or even executed.

Today, things have changed for the better. Human rights abuses have diminished. Reporters who anger the regime are still occasionally jailed or harassed by the authorities, but limits on freedom of expression have eased considerably. A new breed of independent journalist has emerged and is fueling the popularity of a group of fiercely independent newspapers. These papers are quickly drawing readers away from the stuffy, old-style publications that continue to trumpet the government's line.

 

II. THE CASE

[Monday Morning in the Newsroom]

A press release arrived shortly before deadline from the London-based firm of Thonka, Inc., whose managing director is Mr. Leonard Singer, a native of Freedonia. You have confirmed that this is a genuine press release from the company. It reads: PRESS RELEASE: A NEW BEGINNING FOR GREEN PARK

Last week in London, Thonka, Inc., signed a letter of understanding with Amari Hotels on the financing and construction of a five-star luxury hotel in the Palisades suburb known as Green Park. A site has now been designated for the hotel, but needs formal approval from Mr. David Suzdal, Minister of Planning. The site formerly served as location for the now defunct Tigers Battalion of Freedonia's Defense Forces and was recently acquired by Thonka, Inc., from Bombay Traders Ltd.

“Our company's negotiations with the Ministry of Planning are progressing, and we expect the documents of approval to be finalized early next month,” said Mr. Leonard Singer, managing director of Thonka, Inc.

“We are happy to announce that this development project is likely to create at least 800 jobs at the construction site. This will make the project the single largest contribution to the development of the tourism industry in Freedonia, and thus will be perfectly in line with the internationally acclaimed priorities of the government of Freedonia,” Mr. Singer added.

Work will commence immediately Applicants, mainly masons, bulldozer drivers, concrete workers, and carpenters, are kindly requested to turn up at our recruitment office on 14 Willow Street, starting Monday.

 

III. THE TASK

·         How do you deal with this piece of information?

·         Draw up two lists: one of the newsworthy information in the press release about which you have no doubt, and a second outlining the things you need to check.

·         What sources of information you will need to make a report?