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This is the same programme we discussed in this column in Issue 24 dated 9 May. In that article, we asked what would be in the programme and raised concerns on how much an average Rotarian in the District was aware of the process whereby the programme was produced. We also questioned whether the programme could enhance Rotary's image. Past President L F Thomas, having watched the programme, has raised a few questions in an article in this Issue. These are rather pertinent questions; and we feel that the District has a case to answer. If each club contributes $10,000 towards the programme, the sum raised would be sufficient for the annual running costs of the Rotary Information Centre and would be close to one third of the annual operating budget. We question how much the District has committed towards the TV programme, and whether the District has been fully consulted and has consented to the format, contents and concepts. We also question whether the programme officers of TVB had fully appraised and advised the District beforehand how and how much the District image could be enhanced through the programme and programming. While we have no doubt that certain Rotarians had worked hard in good faith and in the belief that the programme would be well received, we need to point out that the programme could have sent the wrong signals to the community. We hasten to point out that positive and proactive public relations are not easy, but we believe we have among us the professionals who can help us go nearer the mark and avoid the mistakes that have beenmade. Let us draw some lessons from the event and start to take positive action and to develop an action plan for the future. |