ISLAMABAD: (APP) Journalists covering proceedings of the National Assembly on Monday staged token walk-out of the Press Gallery in protest against non-resolution of their problems and to show solidarity with the families of martyred cameramen of Quetta blasts.
On the directive of Speaker National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Barjees Tahir and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Affairs Irfan Saddiqui went to the protesting journalists to bring them back.
The Parliamentary Reporters Association, which later called off the protest following assurance that their concerns would be addressed, expressed concerns over lack of security measures and demanded the government to announce a special package for journalists martyred like those of the army or police force.
They also demanded announcement of victim and endowment fund for the journalist community, besides granting Rs 5 million in cash and a plot for the families of each journalist or media worker, who was martyred in line of duty.
The journalists also demanded to implement wage board on TV channels and ensure health insurance for them. A parliamentary committee should be constituted to address concerns and reservations of the media persons.
Irfan Saddiqui assured that their complaints and recommendations would be conveyed to the Prime Minister in writing.
Kashmir Affairs Minister Barjees Tahir also assured to extend his support in resolving problems of the journalist community.