Despite Liberal attempts to censor the Internet, the vast majority of Canadians think online information is reliable and people can tell when its not, says the feds own internal polling..Blacklock’s Reporter said Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault’s department has proposed “concrete action” to police news and information on the Internet..“A majority, 80%, believe the online content they consume is factual and truthful,” said a pollsters’ report..“Two-thirds of Canadians, 66%, feel confident in their ability to tell if online content is fair and balanced.”.The Heritage department paid Ipsos Public Affairs $164,621 to conduct online focus groups and questionnaires with 5,207 people..“Almost all Canadians are frequently consuming some form of information online,” wrote researchers..“Canadians largely believe having access to different sources of information with different points of view is important for people to participate in a democracy..“Most participants were confident in their abilities to consider various sources and ensure they are being presented with ‘the full picture.’”.Guilbeault last July 2 issued a reportto instruct themedia on how to report the news..“We can no longer ignore the challenges and opportunities that come with an increasingly digital world,” said Guilbeault..“We have to act now to ensure a healthy ecosystem online for all citizens.”.Reporters, editors and commentators must “foster greater exposure to diverse cultural content, information and news” and “contribute to a healthier public discourse, greater social inclusion within society, bolster resilience to disinformation and misinformation and increase our citizens’ ability to participate in democratic processes,” said the report..The guide defined misinformation as “false or misleading content shared without harmful intent though the effects can still be harmful, e.g. when people share false information with friends and family in good faith.”.The document doesn’t say who within the Heritage department would monitor news deemed to be harmful..“Ethical journalistic standards should be upheld and encouraged,” said the guide, adding: “Information about media ownership and funding sources should be made accessible to the public and transparent to safeguard a diverse and pluralistic media ecosystem.”.Due to a high level of spam content being posted in our comment section below, all comments undergo manual approval by a staff member during regular business hours (Monday - Friday). Your patience is appreciated.
