President of the Press Association of Jamaica, Desmond Richards (left), and treasurer, Ralston Hyman, at yesterday's service at the Church of the Open Bible, Washington Boulevard, St. Andrew. The service marked the beginning of PAJ's Journalism Week. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

Charging that some sections of the media are known for suppressing the truth, Desmond Richards, Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) president, yesterday urged journalists to be honest and fair in reporting the nation's affairs.

Richards was speaking at a service to mark Journalism Week, at the Church of the Open Bible on Washington Boulevard in St. Andrew.

"The sad story is that attempts are being made to hide the truth. But, members of the press should speak the truth no matter how painful," said Mr. Richards, who is also a publisher and editor of the Sunday Herald.

Members of the media who attended the celebratory church service included The Gleaner's Byron Buckley, first vice-president of PAJ; Power 106 FM's Ralston Hyman, treasurer; The Herald's Andrene Davidson, executive member; and Winston 'Babatunde' Witter, member.

PAJ activities for Journalism Week include the veteran's luncheon on tomorrow and the annual Journalism Awards Banquet on Friday. The events are aimed at enhancing the standards of journalism.

- S.T.