Gov’t praises 284 Media as entity suspends news service

The Dr Natalio Wheatley government has praised 284 Media for its contribution to keeping the public informed after the company announced that it has suspended its news service. 284 Media announced that effective September 30, it was pausing 284 News, including its weekly news roundup, daily news posts and news packages. The company described the move as a necessary pause to “reflect, renew and reimagine” how it reports news and facilitates national conversations. “This is not goodbye,” 284 Media said, noting that it will continue providing sports, entertainment and live coverage while considering the future of its news operation.

In a message published on the Premier’s Office official Facebook page, the government recognised 284 Media’s journalists and their contribution to public discourse. “Through the years, 284 Media’s journalists have joined us at press conferences, asked questions and carried stories about the work of government to the wider community,” the statement said. It added: “Their presence in the room, and the coverage that followed, have helped keep the public informed and engaged. ” The suspension comes amid continuing challenges for media businesses in the BVI. Most operate relatively small newsrooms and depend heavily on advertising dollars from a limited…