“If government is serious about accountability and transparency, it is axiomatic (clear) that there should be such (Freedom of Information) legislation” - Su’a Hellene WallworkThe government should not be involved in the regulation of the media. That’s the opinion of local lawyer, Su’a Hellene Wallwork.But Su’a who has previously worked on defamation cases in New Zealand with a highly respected Queen’s Counsel acting for and against the media; says that the sector here is in need of a regulatory body.“Personally, I do not believe government should be involved in regulating the media,” she says.“However, I suspect this has come about because the media industry has not successfully set up its own self regulation.”In regards to a question put to her concerning the lack of a Freedom of Information Act here in Samoa, she said this was an obstacle.“With regard to your question about the absence of any legislation to guarantee the right of any person to access official information, I agree this is a huge barrier for the media and the public in general,” said Su’a.“If government is serious about accountability and transparency, it is axiomatic (clear) that there should be such legislation.”Looking to the Media Council Bill 2014 which is currently before the House, Su’a said she thought there were good aspects of the legislation.“The objective is to hold the media to a certain standard and to provide a dispute resolution for complainants,” she said.“I think there are also other important elements that need to be balanced against the imposed restrictions.\“For example