New rules for commenting on The Current
Posted by editor on April 25, 2012 · 5 Comments
By David F. Rooney
The rules for commenting on The Revelstoke Current have been changed as a result of the recent unpleasantness regarding Norm Macdonald’s opinion piece headlined, British Columbians aren’t buying BC Liberal excuses on HST.
In the interest of full disclosure and maintaining a high level of civility all posters are now required to be registered. This means you must enter your full name and have a valid personal e-mail address. Once you have registered you will be able to comment as before. I will see all posts as they appear. E-mail addresses that are essentially anonymous e-mail clearing houses will automatically be identified as spam.
The Revelstoke Current’s credibility as a forum for open public discussion depends on the willingness of its readers to engage in open discussion on all issues and to respect the opinions of others. People do not have to agree with each other — in fact, I enjoy vigorous debate — but flaming, name calling and attempts to shout down other users are completely unacceptable.
It has been a usually-fun free-for-all, comment-wise, for the last three years and most people have complied with my urging that they identify themselves but enough is enough. If you do not wish to be identified please don’t attempt to comment directly on The Current. This is not open to debate and anyone attempting to circumvent the rules will be banned.
Having said that, however, exceptions may be made, but solely at my discretion and only under certain circumstances. If you believe that what you have to say about an issue is valid but may result in retaliation by an employer or an agent of government you can approach me directly at drooney1@telus.net to discuss your situation.
Thank you David. I am sure that this will curb a ton of the personal attacks as well as encourage people to be a little more thoughtful before they decide to post, I am glad to see the changes.
Thanks, Brad. I want readers to regard The Current as a forum where they can safely comment on issues and engage in vigorous, fruitful and interesting dialogues without fear of being personally attacked and flamed.
Cheers
David
Yes, thank you David. I will now start participating again as well now that I will no longer get flammed by those hiding behind anonymity.
From personal experience of the negative side, I have to agree with you Editor Rooney. Thanks for putting the brakes on those that would seek to silence any of those that disagree with one or the other.
It is unfortunate, that the few can damage so much of what the majority strive for.
David R Pacey
YES..thank you for this change..will enjoy joining in with some of banter on here without worry of some one hiding behind a mask of some kind…and saying unbacked and some times cruel stuff to writers..