Just to answer a couple of hanging questions raised in the above...
Celtic Frog...journalists regularly contact staff direct for reasons of accuracy, speed and - shock horror -
PR departments don't always tell the truth.
PR people are paid to promote and project the company's interests, not to be a pure factual source. Now, while I do not wish to imply all
PR people are liars, unfortunately they are too often put in a position by management where they must at least be economical with the truth. Hence the direct approach is often necessary.
Also, most of us live in a democracy. Journalists have a right to approach anyone. Likewise that person has the right to decline to respond. This is the central point I hoped this thread would get across. Everyone above who has expressed concern at talking to journalists is right to do so. To be careful and to know your rights has always been my 'Warning.' Pushing aside the 'disease' and 'vermin' comments I hope everyone has learned something here. I certainly have.
Dan Coughlan
