Daouk: Freedom of speech must not turn into chaos

 Caretaker Minister of Information, Walid Daouk, addressed during an interview with state run television, Tele Liban, the importance of safeguarding the media's freedom of speech from degenerating into chaos with the appropriate application of the media charter recently signed by majority of Lebanese media outlets with the cooperation of UNDP and EU Group."The line between freedom and chaos is essential," stated the Minister.He explained that said charter was not mandatory. "However, when any breach of the law is committed, the National Audio -visual Council and judiciary are called upon to act.""We have dealt with media outlets on a one on one basis as well as with CEOs, editors and media personalities in order to round the corners and reduce tensions. We will continue our efforts in this context to monitor the situation," Daouk added.Asked about the status of Lebanon's official television station, Tele Liban, Daouk stated that said TV had its golden age but it declined with time, only to rise again in recent years with the support of the Ministry of Information and the Lebanese administration."It will not compete with other privately owned channels; nevertheless, it will take its educational and guidance role on the Lebanese scene."