The signing of a new collective agreement benefiting 33,000 public service employees was a milestone worth celebrating. Unfortunately, what should have been a moment of shared achievement was overshadowed by an avoidable controversy: this portal was denied access to cover the event alongside other media outlets.

The refusal was justified by claims that this portal lacked valid accreditation, as its press card had allegedly expired. However, this narrative ignores crucial facts. We followed all proper procedures, applying to renew our accreditation as far back as 2022. Despite this, the press card was never delivered. Furthermore, we even submitted our application for the 2025-2026 period earlier this month. All of this is documented and verifiable.

When these facts were brought to the attention of an official at the Office of the Prime Minister, which hosted the event, our access was still denied. Initially, the explanation given was that UHM, as a signatory, could not have its photographer present. Yet, when we pointed out that our portal holds the same media accreditation as L-Orizzont—the General Workers’ Union’s outlet—we were dismissed due to the alleged expiration of our press card.

It is worth noting that this portal has attended numerous official events, including high-profile ones like the pre-Budget briefing and various collective agreement signings, without issue. Never before have government officials scrutinized the validity of press cards so rigorously. Yet, on this occasion—arguably the most significant agreement of its kind—we were singled out and subjected to an unprecedented level of scrutiny, all over a photograph of the agreement.

To be clear, we have no objection to the presence of L-Orizzont or any other media outlet at the event; they have every right to be there. In fact, it was thanks to L-Orizzont that we were able to share photos of the ceremony, as they graciously offered their assistance. However, the selective exclusion of this portal undermines the very spirit of the occasion. Had access been restricted to all media, leaving only government photographers to document the event, it might have been more understandable. But to target the UHM portal specifically was not only unfair but also a misjudgement that cast a shadow over the day.

Let us not forget that UHM was one of the main architects of this complex agreement. Denying its media platform the same access as others was a disservice to the union and the thousands of workers it represents. This portal does not seek special treatment—only equal treatment.

This incident highlights the need for greater fairness and consistency in media access. Let us hope it was an isolated incident and that future milestones are marked by unity and inclusivity, rather than unnecessary discord.