The Polish prosecuting authority and the experts have not been able to prove or provide any documentary evidence of the alleged offences.

 

In six different reports, four independent and reputable auditors - both international and Polish firms - have totally dismissed the basis for the allegations of breach of law.

 

Orkla Media as majority shareholder in Presspublica (through the subsidiary Presspublica Holding Norway AS) has had and has complete confidence in the management of Presspublica.  It was expected that the prosecuting authority would drop the case, and it will be noted. 

 

At the same time we would like to draw attention to several other investigative actions carried out against journalists at Rzeczpospolita by the office of the prosecutor, and which Orkla Media regard as being serious machinations against the freedom of press in Poland.

 

Orkla Media will discuss these issues with international authorities and organisations.

 

Jan Lindh

Managing Director

Orkla Media AS

 

Terje Bertheussen

Man. Dir. Orkla Press AS

(In charge of Orkla Media's involvement in newspapers in Central and Eastern Europe)